HC Deb 30 April 1953 vol 514 cc2336-7
29. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Labour if he will specify the steps he has taken during the last month and is now taking to find employment for the unemployed workers in the shipbuilding, ship repairing, engineering and motor industries in the city of Aberdeen.

Sir W. Monckton

During the four weeks ended the 25th April, the Aberdeen employment exchange placed 45 unemployed persons suitable for employment in these industries. A further 48 remain on the registers and the exchange is continuing its efforts on their behalf.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that much of this unemployment is caused by steel shortage? Will he consult the Minister of Supply to see if that can be obviated so that unemployment in the shipbuilding industry can be prevented?

Sir W. Monckton

I am well aware of the difficulty about steel plate. I have been in touch with my right hon. Friend on that matter for some time past, and shall continue to be in touch with him.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that one of our greatest problems is the drift of skilled workers to the south? Is his Department in a position to inform such workers who are looking for employment in the south that the steel allocation scheme will shortly bring about greater employment in the shipbuilding yards?

Sir W. Monckton

We are very ready to send to our employment exchanges all the information that we get on these matters, and any information that we get about the supply of steel plate will certainly reach them at once.