HC Deb 31 May 1956 vol 553 c423
21. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the shortage of labour in the South-Western Region of our railways, particularly among signalmen and firemen; and if he will take steps to raise the calling-up age in this service by one year in order to ease the employment situation.

The Minister of Labour and National Service (Mr. Iain Macleod)

I am aware that labour is short in these grades, and I am watching the position in the light of representations I have received from both sides of the industry on the subject.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that quite recently action was taken against the British Transport Commission for employing young men on night work because other labour was not available? If the age is increased to 19 years for call-up, will it not help the position, although I agree that it will not remove the difficulty entirely? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider raising the age to 19?

Mr. Macleod

The first point formed the basis of some of the representations which I have received from the National Union of Railwaymen and the British Transport Commission, and to which I have not yet replied. I am aware of that particular difficulty, and also that it occurred in the hon. Gentleman's area, but, amongst other things, it probably needs legislation to put it right.