HC Deb 29 November 1949 vol 470 cc934-5
30. Mr. Odey

asked the Minister of Labour what is the total number of European Volunteer Workers who are stationed at Full Sutton Camp; how many were offered agricultural employment during the three months August, September and October,; in how many cases such employment was refused; and what was the total amount of unemployment benefit paid to the occupants of this camp during the same period.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Ness Edwards)

The Full Sutton Camp is a holding camp for misfit, sick, disabled, unemployed and other European volunteer workers who have failed to make the grade. There are 776 workers in the camp. During August, September and October, 244 refused agricultural work for various reasons. In 175 cases these reasons were unacceptable and Unemployment Insurance Benefit was disallowed. £2,696 11s. 8d. was paid in Unemployment Insurance Benefit during the three months. I am looking into the whole position of this camp.

Mr. Odey

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him whether, in view of that unsatisfactory record and the widespread damage being done to adjacent farms by European Volunteer Workers in their leisure hours, he will consider closing the camp?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I do not think that a wrong impression ought to be created. This is a holding camp for misfits and for persons who are difficult to place. It contains 776 out of the 180,000 foreign workers who have been recruited for British industry. I agree that this number represents difficult cases, and that the matter is causing apprehension in the minds of people in the locality. We are dealing with it, but I hope that no smear will be cast upon the vast body of foreign workers who are doing an excellent job.

Mr. Stokes

Can my right hon. Friend say, without notice, how many of these workers who have either refused agricultural work or who are considered unsuitable, are capable of doing other work?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I think that those who have refused agricultural work are suitable for other work if vacancies are available.