HC Deb 05 March 1953 vol 512 cc546-7
18. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Labour the average daily number of dock workers who were surplus to requirements in the Aberdeen docks to the last week in January, 1953; how that compares with the figures for corresponding weeks of 1952, 1951, and 1950; and what percentage of the register these figures represent in each case.

Sir W. Monckton

In the week ending 31st January, 1953, the average daily number of dock workers surplus to requirements in the Aberdeen docks was 198, or 30.5 per cent. of the total on the register. The corresponding figures for 1952, 1951 and 1950 were 166 or 23.8 per cent.; 60 or 14.1 per cent, and 32 or 7.3 per cent., respectively.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Does the Minister realise that that indicates a trend towards increasing unemployment, which is prejudicial to national production and morale, and will he tell the House what he is doing to rectify that change in the situation?

Sir W. Monckton

The hon. and learned Gentleman will notice that the increase during last year was 36 people. I do not think that we should exaggerate the effect upon morale. At the same time, I know that the Dock Labour Board have very much in mind themselves the position of those who are so frequently surplus to requirements.