HC Deb 24 October 1949 vol 468 c1002
67. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware of the risk of unemployment among wood and stone carvers; and whether he will issue sufficient licences to avert this.

Mr. Key

I am aware that comparatively little wood and stone carving is now being carried out in this country, and I hope to see a revival of these crafts. My licensing officers are instructed to license, as far as is reasonably possible, work employing wood and stone carvers.

Mr. Keeling

Is the Minister not aware that the majority of the London carvers, both of wood and of stone, are today working in the Palace of Westminster; and that when the new House of Commons is finished, although there is plenty of work for them to do, they will be thrown out of work unless he gives licences?

Mr. Key

As I have said, we will do our best to see that licences are issued in order to employ them.

Mr. David Eccles

Could the right hon. Gentleman say how many Italian masons have been allowed in?

Mr. Key

No, Sir, not without notice.