HC Deb 06 December 1956 vol 561 c1441
34. Mr. Lawson

asked the Minister of Labour why there is a difference of as much as 12 per cent. between the regions in the rate of increase in numbers of employees over the period from mid-1948 to mid-1955; and what steps he proposes taking to foster a more even rate of development.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The rate of increase between regions depends on many factors, and particularly on the degree to which reserves of labour are drawn into employment to meet the varying demands. It is the policy of the Government to encourage the use of the available resources of manpower to the best advantage.

Mr. Lawson

Does not the Minister agree that the variations in the rates of increase are surprisingly large, and that if the rate of increase in Scotland had been as great as that in the Midlands Scotland ought to have another 136,000 employees? Is the Minister not aware that if this drain of population to certain centres of the country is not to be stopped and other centres are to receive equitable development, there must be more decisive action on the part of the Government?

Mr. Macleod

The hon. Gentleman will find from the answer to a Written Question which, I believe, he has down today that, as between Scotland and England and Wales, the growth of employment is surprisingly level. It is true that in different parts and regions of England it is rather uneven, but that is because many people, married women and others, are drawn into the labour field where the particular level of demand is highest.