HC Deb 12 July 1956 vol 556 c582
40. Mr. Orbach

asked the Minister of Labour the number of vacancies notifed for skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers at the Willesden employment exchange on the last available day.

Mr. Iain Macleod

On 9th July there were 1,170 vacancies for men and 990 for women at the Willesden employment exchange. 530 of the men's vacancies were for skilled workers, and 360 of the women's. It is not practicable to distinguish between vacancies for semi-skilled workers and unskilled workers.

Mr. Orbach

Is the Minister aware that a week ago 400 skilled workers in this area were declared redundant? They are having very great difficulty in finding alternative jobs. What does the Minister propose to do to get them absorbed into industry at the earliest possible moment?

Mr. Macleod

Of course I know the difficulties. The hon. Member is referring to the Smith's motor accessory firm in his constituency. But his constituency is part of London and cannot be taken in isolation, because travelling facilities are very good and one has to consider all the vacancies available in the surrounding areas. Those are many times the number of people unemployed.