HC Deb 16 March 1948 vol 448 cc1853-4
4. Mr. Coldrick

asked the Minister of Labour how many people are registered as unemployed at the employment exchanges in Bristol; and how many are signing on at the Eastville exchange.

Mr. Isaacs

Three thousand four hundred and twenty-seven at 16th February, including 567 at Eastville employment exchange.

Mr. Coldrick

Is the Minister aware that there is great dissatisfaction in Bristol owing to the inability on the part of the exchanges to find employment, while advertisements are appearing seeking accommodation for Polish workers coming into the city?

Mr. Isaacs

Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me particulars about that and I will look into it. I am not aware that is so.

17. Mr. Timmons

asked the Minister of Labour what are the registered numbers of unemployed at Airdrie, Bellshill, Hamilton, Motherwell, Coatbridge and Uddingston, respectively.

Mr. Isaacs

At 16th February the numbers were 1,461 at Airdrie, 780 at Bellshill, 1,045 at Hamilton, 998 at Motherwell, 1,799 at Coatbridge, and 394 at Uddingston.

Mr. Timmons

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these numbers have risen rapidly during the past few weeks, and will he keep the matter strictly before his colleagues in the Cabinet to ensure that everything possible is done to prevent this area from becoming the black spot it was in 1939?

Mr. Isaacs

Yes, Sir. Like other Development Areas, this area is suffering from the shortage of materials which prevents the completion of factories and other work planned and provided for these areas, but the work is being proceeded with and priority will be given where necessary.