HC Deb 21 April 1955 vol 540 c333
6. Mr. Page

asked the Minister of Labour how many notified vacancies there were for dock workers in Liverpool upon the latest convenient date.

Sir W. Monckton

On 18th April there were vacancies for 234 dock workers in the Liverpool area.

Mr. Page

Does my right hon. and learned Friend think that this sufficiently indicates the demand for labour in the Liverpool Docks in order to avoid delays and to improve the time of turn-round? Does not he think that the Dock Labour Scheme is perhaps being a little overcautious in not demanding more labour?

Sir W. Monckton

I can tell my hon. Friend that approval has now been given for a further increase of 500 in the temporary register, and that next week the National Dock Labour Board will be considering an additional 500 to the register.

Mr. H. Wilson

Will the Minister say what unemployment he anticipates in dock work on Merseyside when the reductions in imports, which the Chancellor is trying to bring about, take effect?

Sir W. Monckton

Without notice, I could not give an estimate of that character—nor do I think the right hon. Gentleman would expect it.

Mr. Awbery

Can the Minister state what was the largest number of men who were unemployed on any day in the last few months?

Sir W. Monckton

Certainly—upon notice.