HC Deb 11 March 1954 vol 524 cc2405-6
6 Mrs. Mann

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the unemployment register in Coatbridge is showing a disturbing upward trend, due to a recession in iron and steel re-rolling; and if he will take steps to reduce the unemployment in this industry.

Sir W. Monckton

Yes, Sir. I am aware that a number of workers in the iron and steel industry in this area have recently been registered as temporarily stopped, and I understand that this is due to a falling-off in orders for the home market which have been placed with local firms. I will continue to watch the position and keep in touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply about it.

Mrs. Mann

Is the Minister aware that in this instance there is a marked change in comparison with the years 1950 to 1953? Compared with last year, there is an addition of 200.

Sir W. Monckton

In February that was so. It was much less in January, when there was practically no change, but February, with its bad weather, was a difficult month for the whole country.

Mr. Bevan

Might not the fall in employment in the rolling and re-rolling industries indicate that we are at last faced with the same influences as have produced such a reduction in steel production in America and in Germany? Will net the right hon. and learned Gentleman look at the question from that point of view?

Sir W. Monckton

I will certainly look at it from that point of view with my right hon. Friend. I hope there is no reason for a pessimistic view yet, at any rate.

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