HC Deb 26 February 1953 vol 511 cc2298-9
44. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that 11.7 per cent. of the insured population in Caithness and Sutherland is unemployed, which is almost four times more than the average rate for Scotland; and what steps he intends to take to remedy this situation.

The Minister of Labour (Sir Walter Monckton)

I recognise that there is a high rate of unemployment in the two counties, but I am glad to say that the position has improved since the end of 1950. There have been increases in employment resulting from industrial developments, including those for which my hon. Friend himself has been largely responsible, and from various improvement schemes. We shall continue to press on with the published programme of Highland development as far as our financial position allows.

Sir D. Robertson

Will my right hon. and learned Friend consider whether it is good economy to pay off so many skilled roadmen at a time when our roads are in a very bad condition and urgently need repair? Would it not be better to put these men to work instead of keeping them unemployed at cost to the taxpayer?

Sir W. Monckton

As my hon. Friend knows, I am always anxious, where I can, to secure the necessary funds to keep the people employed. I do my best to pursue that course and I shall continue to do so in the instance which he has given.

Mr. Grimond

When the Minister talks of pressing on with the programme of Highland development, will he bear in mind that at present this is not happening and that there is a great deal of work waiting to be done not only on the roads, but also in land development—work which could well be done in the Highlands with the available unemployed labour?

Sir W. Monckton

I am sure the hon. Gentleman realises that there is a limit to my responsibility in this matter. I will see that the point which he has made is brought to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.

45. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that unemployment in Scotland has increased during the last month; that on 12th January the total number of unemployed was 81,535: that this brought the percentage rate up to 3.9 per cent., which is nearly double the British average of 2.2 per cent.; how he accounts for this increase; and what steps he is taking to reduce it.

Sir W. Monckton

Yes, Sir. The increase in the numbers registered on 12th January as unemployed in Scotland compared with 8th December, 1952, was mainly accounted for by fresh registrations of school leavers. by further reductions in those employed in industries subject to seasonal changes at this time of year such as building, distributive trades, and transport, and by small increases in unemployment in certain manufacturing industries.

NUMBERS OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS ON THE REGISTERS OF THE ABERDEEN EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE AND YOUTH EMPLOYMENT OFFICE AT THE UNDERMENTIONED DATES
Date Shipbuilding and Ship-repairing Engineering Manufacture of Motor Vehicles and Cycles, and Motor Repairers and Garages
14th February, 1949 … … … 93 114 30
13th February, 1950 … … … 97 57 47
12th February, 1951 … … … 163 52 15
11th February, 1952 … … … 113 59 15
16th February, 1953 … … … 159 70 42
Comparable figures are not available for February, 1948.