HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 cc537-8
6. Mr. Piratin

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the existence of 3,000 to 4,000 dockers in the London ports for whom there is no work, he will investigate the conditions there to ascertain whether the recommendation of the working party that ship owners and major importers and exporters should consider the possibility of saving ships' time by the greater use of ports not working to full capacity, is being implemented.

Mr. Barnes

There is not an unduly large surplus of dock workers in London, and no reason is seen for the investigation suggested by the hon. Member.

Mr. Piratin

Do I take it from that answer that the Minister refutes these figures? I understand these figures are the official figures recognised by the Union. If that is the case will he look into the matter once again?

Mr. Barnes

As a matter of fact, these figures fluctuate from day to day and week to week. If the figures in London are compared with many of the other ports in the country London is not at a disadvantage.

Mr. Bramall

Will my right hon. Friend say what he means by "unduly large surplus" because I understood that the Government's policy was one of full employment?

Mr. Barnes

If my hon. Friend has any knowledge of the dock work and the system of registered labour there he will understand that fluctuation is part of the problem.

Mr. Awbery

Is it not a fact that there is a scheme in operation whereby men can be transferred from port to port, and from where they are not required to where they are required?

Mr. Osborne

Is the Minister seriously telling the House that there is much more serious unemployment in other docks than there is in London?

Mr. George Thomas

If my right hon. Friend does investigate this question will he bear in mind the necessity for seeing that ships come to the South Wales ports, where there are workers also out of work?