HC Deb 25 October 1955 vol 545 c18
30. Mr. Moss

asked the Minister of Labour how far the decline in manpower in the basic industries evident in 1954 has been arrested; and what steps are being taken by his Department to maintain adequate manpower in these industries.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and National Service (Mr. Harold Watkinson)

In the first eight months of 1955 the total number employed in the basic industries increased by 72,000. This was largely a seasonal increase but it is 17,000 more than in the corresponding months in 1954. In coal mining, however, the number in employment declined by 6,000 in the first nine months of the year. To meet the situation in coal mining my Department in conjunction with the National Coal Board is conducting a widespread publicity campaign designed to encourage recruitment to and discourage wastage from the industry. Agriculture will benefit in future from the new National Service deferment arrangements, and in general special attention is given as necessary by the employment exchanges to filling vacancies in the basic industries.

Mr. Bevan

Is the Ministry of Labour making any effort to consult the Ministry of Housing and Local Government as to the extent to which an increase in recruiting in the mining industry might be brought about by better housing and more housing in the mining areas?

Mr. Watkinson

That is a very good point which we have very much in mind.

Mr. Bevan

Would the Minister be prepared to tell the House quite soon what the results have been?

Mr. Watkinson

I could not give the information without notice.