HC Deb 08 July 1952 vol 503 cc1077-8
18. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Minister of Labour what special steps he is taking to ensure that unemployed building workers in the London area are being found jobs on the building of houses.

Sir W. Monckton

Employment exchanges bring specially to the notice of suitable unemployed men particulars of outstanding vacancies on housing contracts. A system of circulation ensures that particulars of vacancies, not only in London, but also in surrounding areas and in other parts of the country, are brought immediately to notice.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman have some conversations, in very strong language, with his colleague, the Minister of Housing and Local Government, who is largely responsible for the unusual and inexcusable wastage of manpower involved in the fact that more than 4,200 building workers are unemployed in the London area?

Sir W. Monckton

I have no doubt that I could take advantage of what the hon. and gallant Gentleman has suggested and get his advice as to the suitability of the language in which I might convey those observations to my right hon. Friend.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

I should be only too pleased to help.

Sir W. Monckton

I am sure the hon. and gallant Gentleman would.