§ 27. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Labour what was the number of unemployed registered in Cardiff at the latest convenient date; and what was the comparable number a year ago.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThree thousand and thirty-six at 11th February, 1957, compared with 1,641 at 13th February, 1956.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that these figures are causing great alarm in the City of Cardiff? Can he hold out any hope of a substantial reduction, because, with the present high cost of living, life for these people is a misery?
§ Mr. MacleodI hope that from now on we shall see a reduction in these figures as the usual upswing in seasonal employment takes place.
§ 28. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Labour the number of workers in Cardiff who are employed on short-time working; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodTo the best of my knowledge, about 130. The short-time working in Cardiff has mainly been at firms manufacturing motor car components and the position has recently improved.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that at one of these factories the entire staff is working short-time and that when employees work four days a week they are not allowed any benefit for the fifth day, which puts them in a serious financial position? Will he have a word with the Minister of National Insurance to see whether something can be done to help these men?
§ Mr. MacleodI am not sure to which firm the hon. Member is referring.
§ Mr. ThomasDialoy.
§ Mr. MacleodThere are 68 on short-time there. The short-time position in the area has substantially improved. On the other matter, Government policy is as indicated in the National Insurance Bill which has recently been laid before the House.