§ 9. Mr. Edelmanasked the Minister of Labour whether the expectation contained in the Economic Survey for 1952, that 50,000 additional workers would be wanted for the aircraft programme by March, has been fulfilled; and how far the demands of that programme for labour are being satisfied.
§ Sir W. MoncktonThe changes made in the defence programme have reduced to some extent the number of additional workers required for the aircraft industry by March, 1953. Between the end of 1951 and the end of January, 1953 (the date to which the latest employment statistics relate), employment in the manufacture and repair of aircraft increased by 32,000 and unfilled vacancies decreased from 8,500 to 5,300. More workers will be required for super-priority aircraft as production expands. Apart from certain types of skilled worker, the labour demands of the programme are being satisfied.
§ Mr. EdelmanIn view of the projected expansion of the aircraft programme, will the right hon. and learned Gentleman consult the unions concerned to see whether men who are made redundant to the motor industry might have their skill adapted to the requirements of the aircraft programme?
§ Sir W. MoncktonIf any skill is disclosed in the redundancies to which the 1484 hon. Member refers, I shall certainly take it into account and see what can be done to make use of it.