HC Deb 24 February 1958 vol 583 cc3-4
5. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Paymaster-General to what extent the policy of selective recruitment of manpower by the National Coal Board is due to lack of demand for coal; and what recent discussions he has had with the Board on this problem.

Mr. Maudling

Recruitment policy is a matter for the Board itself to decide. It had regard to the slackening in demand when it decided on the present pause in recruitment. My noble Friend and I are in constant touch with the Board on all questions of major policy.

Mr. Roberts

Does the Minister appreciate that there is much apprehension in the coalfields concerning the operations of the National Coal Board, and that most of them feel that they would like the Minister to show his feelings a little bit and not to hesitate to give directions when necessary?

Mr. Maudling

I am sure that my noble Friend will give directions whenever it is necessary, but it is my impression that seldom, if ever, has a direction been given by the Minister to the Board. I think that, on the whole, if directions do become necessary, in a sense it will be a confession of failure of the two parties to be able to agree.

Mr. Neal

Can the Paymaster-General state the total level of manpower which is being aimed at, and, since manpower is so closely related to output, what is the output target? Surely this is not a policy being pursued without a prepared plan?

Mr. Maudling

I must make clear that this is a temporary pause, as has been stated by the National Coal Board. It has had very good recruitment in recent months. This pause is purely a temporary one and does not in any way affect its long-term planning.