HC Deb 25 October 1950 vol 478 cc2786-7
38. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty when it is proposed to set up the development council for the ship-building and ship repairing industries.

Mr. W. Edwards

The Government are fully alive to the position in this industry and will consider the setting up of a development council when they consider the time appropriate.

Mr. Morley

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is a considerable amount of unemployment in the ship-building and ship repairing industry today, and would the time not now be appropriate to give effect to the pledge made in "Labour Believes in Britain" that this development council should be set up?

Mr. Edwards

We are aware that there is some increase in unemployment in ship repairing rather than in ship-building, but I believe the situation is a little more promising for the future. My hon. Friend's proposal will be kept under active consideration.

Mr. J. N. Browne

Is the Minister aware that all interests are represented on the Ship-Building Advisory Committee, with its independent chairman?