HC Deb 28 February 1952 vol 496 cc1438-9
23. Mr. Frederick Mulley

asked the Minister of Labour the number of unemployed persons in Sheffield on 1st November last, and on the latest convenient date since 4th February.

Sir W. Monckton

The number was 1,230 at 12th November, 1951, and 1,470 at 11th February, 1952.

Mr. R. Jennings

Will my right hon. and learned Friend consult the Minister of Supply to see that a full allocation of raw materials is sent to industries in Sheffield, so that they can keep their people supplied?

Mr. Mulley

Is it not the custom Mr. Speaker, for the hon. Member who put down the original Question to ask the first supplementary question?

Mr. Speaker

It is, but the hon. Member was slow in rising.

Mr. Mulley

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman consult the Minister of Supply and other Ministers concerned to see if the substantial increase in unemployment can be mitigated, particularly in view of the fact that a number of firms have advised their workers that substantial redundancy must be expected in the near future?

Sir W. Monckton

As I have been invited, I will attempt to consult my right hon. Friend, but I ought to draw attention to the fact that whereas the figure I have given for 11th February is 1,470 the figure for February, 1951, was 1,405. That will put the matter into some proportion.