HC Deb 18 May 1960 vol 623 cc1256-7
26. Mr. Gourlay

asked the Postmaster-General what was the number of youths in training for Post Office work in the United Kingdom; what percentage of these was being trained in Scotland; and how this percentage compares with the similar percentage for 1950.

Miss Pike

The figures were, respectively: 1,657: 5 per cent. and 10 per cent.

Mr. Gourlay

While thanking the hon. Lady for that reply, may I ask whether she does not feel that her Department could do much more to alleviate the gross unemployment of youth in Scotland?

Miss Pike

Over the last five years the figures of adult and juvenile labour in Scotland have remained fairly steady. Recruitment is, however, expected to increase in the next year or so.

Mr. G. Campbell

Can my hon. Friend say whether the decision to bring the Transatlantic cable into Britain via Oban is providing or will provide any more employment in that area or in Scotland generally?

Miss Pike

Yes, I am glad to say that in this instance we shall be employing more Scottish craftsmen, but hon. Members will realise that the amount of labour which is actually employed at the terminal centre is. of course, very small.