HC Deb 24 June 1959 vol 607 cc1187-8
48. Mr. Hannan

asked the Minister of Labour on how many occasions the Scottish Advisory Committee on Youth Employment met during the year 1958.

Mr. Iain Macleod

Three times.

Mr. Hannan

While appreciating this improvement over 1947, may I ask the Minister whether he agrees that, in view of the increasing numbers of unemployed and the declining number of apprenticeships, this Committee ought to be advised or asked to meet more often?

Mr. Macleod

It is not necessarily the number of times that the Committee meets, but what it does at its meetings, which is important. This Committee, which is a strong one, exists to advise the National Youth Employment Council. The number of times it meets is for its members to decide, but no doubt they will see what has been said in the House this afternoon.

Mr. Lee

Does the Minister agree that the problems with which the Committee is confronted will increase and become more onerous? Will he ensure that this Committee and other comparable committees are apprised of the position which may well develop?

Mr. Macleod

I do not agree that the problems will get more difficult. There are more children coming out of school, but there are also greater opportunities being created all the time for them. I am certain that these facts are before the Scottish Advisory Committee.

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