HC Deb 08 November 1949 vol 469 cc1027-8
2. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Minister of Labour if his attention has been drawn to the increase of unemployment in the shipbuilding and ship repairing industries in Southampton; and what steps he proposes to take to meet this situation.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

Unemployment in Southampton among shipyard workers rose sharply in September, but I am glad to say that there has since been a considerable fall. Moreover, a large number of those still unemployed are expected to start work very shortly when recruitment of workers for the winter overhaul of liners begins. This work is expected to last until next February. By that time, there is a reasonable prospect of suitable alternative employment for workers not then required on ship-repairing work.

Mr. Morley

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask whether he is aware that the steamship "Isle of Jersey," which is normally handled at Southampton Docks has been diverted to a private yard? Can he consult his right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport to see that this does not occur again?

Mr. Isaacs

I am not quite sure what authority the Minister of Transport has in the matter, but I will most certainly consult him about it.

Mr. Gallacher

In view of the general uneasiness in different parts of the country in regard to this matter of shipbuilding cannot the Minister of Labour arrange a special conference of those concerned with shipbuilding in order to work out a plan of some kind to ensure the greatest possible distribution of the work?

Mr. Isaacs

I cannot say anything about a general conference covering all the shipyards but I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the matter is having the very sincere attention of the Government Departments concerned.

Mr. Awbery

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the extreme competition in shipbuilding which we have from the Continent, because conditions of labour and wages there are lower than they are in this country? Will he do something with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport to improve conditions and to increase wages on the other side?

Mr. Isaacs

My writ does not run as far as that. The main work of repairing war-damaged ships has now been completed.