HC Deb 29 January 1952 vol 495 cc6-7
12. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Labour how many men and women, respectively, are now unemployed in the city of Aberdeen and in what trades; and what were the respective figures for the corresponding periods in each of the last six years.

Sir W. Monckton

I am having the available information extracted and will write to the hon. and learned Member.

Mr. Hughes

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is increasing unemployment in the shipbuilding and engineering trades in the North-East of Scotland? What is he doing to maintain full employment in these trades, both of which are essential in peace as well as in war?

Sir W. Monckton

I am well aware that there is unemployment there. I am anxious to get materials and when I get them I will see what special steps if any ought to be taken.

Mr. Hale

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is a very great deal of unemployment in Oldham and in Lancashire and that there is very great concern about the situation in Lancashire, especially in the textile industry? Is he aware that that concern is aggravated by the possibility of the Chinese market being closed to the textile industry, and that it is made worse by the fact that in the armament industry there are 90 per cent. of people in some factories being paid wages for doing no work?

Sir W. Monckton

I will bear in mind what the hon. Member said when I reconsider the earlier Question.