§ 3. Mr. Maurice Edelmanasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of increasing redundancy and underemployment in certain engineering industries; and what action he is taking to absorb into productive employment the labour made available.
§ The Minister of Labour (Sir Walter Monckton)No, Sir. The latest information available to me does not suggest that there is any substantial increase of redundancy or short-time in engineering. The demands of engineering firms for labour far exceed the number of workers available. There is no difficulty or delay in finding other employment for the small numbers becoming redundant.
§ Mr. EdelmanBut does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman realise that a large number of vacancies are for unskilled and semi-skilled labour and are not suitable for many of those skilled men who have lately become redundant and whose numbers are increasing? In order to prevent massive unemployment in the engineering industry this winter, will he not use the same techniques of planning and improvisation as were used by the Labour Government to preserve full employment during six difficult years?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI will certainly endeavour to profit by the work of others. I should like to say also that as far as my information goes there is no difficulty at present in placing skilled engineers.
§ Mr. Percy ShurmerIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that this is causing great concern amongst many 538 workers in Birmingham? May I tell him that this morning I had a telephone message from a firm who are having to stand off men this week owing to shortage of materials? Is this equivalent to the direction of labour?
§ Sir W. MoncktonNo, Sir. This is not equivalent to the direction of labour. There are, of course, differences in different areas. I was giving a national conspectus. I am aware of and am watching difficulties in different areas.
§ Mr. Cyril OsborneWhen my right hon. and learned Friend says small numbers are temporarily redundant, could he tell the House about how many?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI think that is another question. If my hon. Friend wants information about that perhaps he will put down a Question.
§ Mr. EdelmanIn view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I wish to, give notice, Mr. Speaker, that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.