HC Deb 24 February 1955 vol 537 cc1428-9
22. Mr. Russell

asked the Minister of Labour the percentage shortage of workers in London Docks; and what steps are being taken to recruit more workers.

Mr. Watkinson

The average daily labour shortage in London Docks during the first three weeks in February was approximately 0.7 per cent. of the number of workers on the Port Register. I understand that the London Dock Labour Board has already recruited 41 new workers and instructed a further 155 to report for duty as soon as they are able to do so.

Mr. Russell

Is my hon. Friend aware that a constituent of mine recently received some goods which took only 28 days to come from Hong Kong by sea but took a further 22 days to go from London Docks to Clerkenwell—only five miles? Can that be explained by a shortage of labour, or is there another reason?

Mr. Watkinson

I could not answer that question without notice.