§ 24. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Labour what is the percentage 12 unemployment rate for Wales as compared with England at the latest known date.
§ Mr. IsaacsAt 16th February 5½ per cent. in Wales compared with 1½ per cent. in England.
§ Mr. FreemanIn view of the great discrepancy between these figures, can the Minister say what steps are being taken to see that unemployment in Wales is no greater than it is over the rest of England?
§ Mr. IsaacsI can say not only what steps are being taken, but what steps have actually been taken. In February, 1946, the percentage in Wales was 9½ per cent. and since that time it has been brought down to 5½ per cent, It is admitted that this is much too high, and active steps are being taken to induce other industries to go to the area.