HC Deb 15 March 1955 vol 538 cc1100-1
11. Mr. Bishop

asked the Minister of Labour if he will now consider withdrawing the Notification of Vacancies Order, 1952.

Mr. Watkinson

This question has recently been reviewed and we have come to the conclusion that, in the present state of labour supply and demand, this Order could not be withdrawn without adverse effects on our export and other important industries.

Mr. Bishop

Does the reply of my hon. Friend mean that this Order may be a permanent part of our employment machinery while full employment continues, as we all hope it will? Is it not in fact a severe restriction on personal liberty and an interference with the private channels of employment? Will he take the matter up?

Mr. Watkinson

I do not for a moment mean that this is a permanent feature of our legislative set-up. What I do mean is, for instance, that it has been very useful recently in steering a number of men into the aircraft industry, where they are badly needed.