§ 25. Mr. Shortasked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking to find alternative employment for 175 women 1286 now redundant at the Elswick Works, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, to which his attention has been called by the hon. Member for Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Central.
§ Sir W. MoncktonI understand that the discharge of the redundant workers is being spread over a period of two months. The services of my local officers are available to help those affected to find other employment.
§ Mr. ShortIs the Minister aware that there is considerable apprehension in these big works in Newcastle about redundancy? In view of the avowed policy of the Government to preserve full employment, will not he do what I asked him, and consult his colleagues at the Board of Trade and the Ministry of Supply to ensure that redundancy is dealt with as soon as it appears?
§ Sir W. MoncktonIn this case, there were fifty-six women who had left by the end of June last of whom twenty-three registered, and ten have already found employment. The rate of female unemployment in Newcastle last month was 1.3 per cent. That puts the matter in its proper perspective, but, of course, I will consult my right hon. Friend to see what he can do.