§ 79. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that, owing to the policy of the Government to acquire compulsorily the airport at Prestwick, several hundred skilled craftsmen will be thrown out of work; and what steps he proposes to take to find them suitable alternative employment.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)I am aware that the firm concerned anticipates some redundancy, but I am advised that this cannot properly be attributed to the cause suggested. I have no information yet as to the number of skilled men likely to be affected. If discharges do, in fact, occur the employment exchanges will do their best to place the workers in other suitable employment as quickly as possible.
§ Sir T. MooreThat is most unsatisfactory. Will the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Minister of Civil Aviation with a view to ensuring that the factory at Prestwick is restarted, and that the men are kept in the employment for which they are equipped and trained, and which they desire?