HC Deb 11 November 1954 vol 532 cc1382-3
19. Mr. G. Roberts

asked the Minister of Labour the number of persons registered as unemployed in the county of Caernarvon; what percentage of the insured population of the county this represents; and how this percentage compares with that for the United Kingdom.

The Minister of Labour and National Service (Sir Walter Monckton)

The number of unemployed persons on the registers of employment exchanges in Caernarvonshire at 11th October, 1954, was 1,955, or 5.3 per cent. of the estimated total number of employees. The corresponding percentage for Great Britain as a whole was 1.2.

Mr. Roberts

Is not the Minister aware that these figures prove that the level of unemployment in Caernarvonshire is three times, or more, that in the United Kingdom generally? Is he not further aware that during the coming winter these figures will be still further worsened by the fact that two maintenance depots in Llanberis and Llandwrog run by the Royal Air Force are to be closed? Will he consult the President of the Board of Trade to see if some steps can be taken before the onset of the winter to improve the employment position in Caernarvonshire?

Sir W. Monckton

Throughout last year, and even before, I realised that the difference between Caernarvonshire and the country as a whole is of the order mentioned by the hon. Member, and I am in consultation with my colleagues, because this is a matter to which I have to give my special attention.

Mr. W. R. Williams

Has the right hon. and learned Gentleman any particular scheme in mind, because I happen to know the area from personal experience, and I can say that there is serious concern, especially in view of the development mentioned by my hon. Friend in connection with the Royal Air Force?

Sir W. Monckton

Specific schemes are not a matter for my Department. This is a problem for which I do not see an immediate cure, and I do not pretend to do so.