HC Deb 13 May 1954 vol 527 cc1404-5
3. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that a recession in the aeroplane industry in Scotland is increasing unemployment there; how many workers in this industry in Scotland are now unemployed, and in which factories; and what steps he is taking to find them work.

Sir W. Monckton

No, Sir. The number of persons employed in the aircraft industry in Scotland in March, 1954, was nearly 16,000. This was over 2,000 higher than the previous year. Less than 1 per cent, were unemployed in April, and the Employment Exchange Service will continue to assist them to get work.

Mr. Hughes

Could the Minister say how it is that though there is no general unemployment in this industry in Scotland there is unemployment in Aberdeen? Why Aberdeen?

Sir W. Monckton

One must begin with the satisfactory news that, in the aircraft industry in general in Scotland, there is no or very little unemployment. From time to time there are places where the position is more difficult than in others, but I do not apprehend any serious unemployment in this industry.

Mr. Robens

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman also give consideration to the difficult position arising in Northern Ireland as a result of redundancy in this aircraft work?

Sir W. Monckton

That is quite a different area, but it is the same kind of question and I am already giving it such consideration as I can.