HC Deb 07 August 1947 vol 441 cc1639-40
46. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Labour if he will now make a statement as to the number of women who have entered industry in response to the Government's appeal; how much it cost to make the appeal; and if he is satisfied with the response.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

This campaign is being conducted in 69 districts in which the shortage of female labour is most pronounced. Since 1st June, when the campaign was launched, until 31st July, 7,533 women have volunteered their services to the local offices of my Department. In addition more than 5,000 women are known to have obtained employment direct, but this figure is incomplete and the real figure is likely to be considerably higher. It is estimated that the cost of the campaign will be about £45,000, of which £20,000 is for Press advertising, £18,000 for poster advertising and £7,000 for miscellaneous district campaign costs. Having regard to the fact that many of the 69 local campaigns are not yet fully in their stride, I consider the results so far achieved are satisfactory and I would like to take this opportunity of expressing the thanks of the Government to those who have volunteered and to those who have remained at work for the help they are giving the nation at this time.

Mr. Osborne

In view of the fact that the textile industry is short of about 350,000 women workers, and that after two months this appeal has only produced 7,000 volunteers, will the right hon. Gentleman see that no compulsion is put on women until the men are made to do an honest day's work?

Mr. Isaacs

I think it an unfair implication to suggest that men are not doing a fair day's work. The hon. Member is not right in his figures, not by a long way. I have not the exact figures, but they are much different. Special steps are being taken to get European voluntary workers to come in.

Mr. Assheton

Will the right hon. Gentleman make quite clear that he is not asking married women with young children to go back to the industry?

Mr. Isaacs

That was made most clear in the original broadcast, and in answers to Questions, but I am very anxious to repeat it now.

Sir William Darling

Has the right hon. Gentleman worked out the cost of each of these recruits to the industry? Am I right in saying that it is £70 per head in advertising for one person?

Mr. Isaacs

My mathematics do not go as far as working that out; I would have to get a ready reckoner. But, in any case, the campaign has just started, and in view of the need the cost may be worth while in the interests of the country.