HC Deb 27 March 1956 vol 550 cc1961-2
35. Mr. Awbery

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the hire-purchase restrictions and Purchase Tax have created intermittent unemployment among the furniture workers of Bristol to the extent of three days a week for 350 workers, and that a number have been forced to leave the trade and if he will take steps to remove the two chief causes of this slump.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I am aware that some workers have left this trade and that there is some short-time working, part of which is attributable to the seasonal decline in demand. As to the last part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statements made on behalf of the Government in the debate on employment on 20th March.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that 25 per cent. of the furniture trade operatives in Bristol are either unemployed or on short time, and that the same proportion applies to the whole of the country? In view of the serious effect that this is having upon workers, employers and the country, will the right hon. Gentleman not have second thoughts about what he has been doing?

Mr. Macmillan

All these matters require careful consideration, but I would point out that whether we operate by physical controls, which I understand is the view of the party opposite, or by monetary and fiscal controls, the object of this whole exercise is to make such a redeployment of industry that we shall be able to increase our exports in a way to make our country solvent.