HC Deb 13 February 1951 vol 484 c184
27. Mr. Niall Macpherson

asked the Minister of Labour what consideration has been given to the further dilution of skilled labour in engineering in view of the re-armament programme.

Mr. Lee

At a recent meeting, the National Joint Advisory Council agreed that schemes of training, upgrading and dilution should be developed by different industries in order to overcome the scarcity of skilled workers. So far as the engineering industry is concerned, existing agreements already provide for dilution, and the amount of it can be extended as the need arises.

Mr. Macpherson

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that there are many men who have acquired considerable skill over a period of years and are still regarded as dilutees, and would it not be worth while to clear up that matter first before considering taking on further persons?

Mr. Lee

That is a matter entirely between the trade unions and the employers concerned.