HC Deb 29 January 1952 vol 495 cc7-8
15. Mr. William A. Steward

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the call-up of skilled aircraft apprentices is retarding the production of aircraft for the re-armament programme; and if he will exempt these skilled workers, in view of the delays caused to production.

Sir W. Monckton

This suggestion is already under examination.

Mr. Steward

Does the Minister fully appreciate that these apprentices are being called up just as they are becoming of real value to the firms by whom they are employed, and that this must have a detrimental effect on the output of aircraft in the re-armament programme?

Sir W. Monckton

I am aware of that, Sir.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that the representative organisations in industry are very concerned about this, and will he bear in mind that if exemption is to be granted in one section of industry it should be applied to others?

Sir W. Monckton

The hon. Gentleman is putting one of the points which are to be examined.