§ 23. Mr. Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the concern felt by workers in the furniture industry at the short-time working and growing unemployment in this industry due to Purchase Tax, hire-purchase restrictions, the credit squeeze, and the rise in the Bank Rate; and whether he will take the necessary action to remove the cause of this unemployment and short-time working.
Mr. AmoryThe percentage of unemployment in this industry at the middle of February was little, if any, greater than the national average, and the number of short-time workers at the end of January, 1958, was less than in the corresponding periods in 1956 and 1957. These facts do not seem to indicate a need for exceptional measures for this particular industry.
§ Mr. LewisIs the Chancellor aware of the fact that the trade unions in this industry, in both North and East London, have expressed deep concern at the position with which their members are now confronted so far as short-time work and unemployment is concerned? If the trade unions desire to make an approach to him on this matter, will he agree to receive a deputation?