HC Deb 29 January 1952 vol 495 c3
4. Mr. R. J. Taylor

asked the Minister of Labour what means he proposes to employ to retain in mining employment those foreign workers who are recruited for this purpose; and if he will make a statement.

Sir W. Monckton

I presume the hon. Member is referring to those Italian workers who have been brought to this country under the official coalmining recruitment scheme. One of the conditions on which these workers are allowed to stay in this country is that they do not leave coalmining employment without the consent of my Department.

Mr. S. S. Awbery

Will the Minister take steps to repudiate statements which have been made to the effect that these men are undesirable?

Sir W. Monckton

They are certainly not undesirable, and I sincerely hope more of them will be able to go into the mines.