§ 13. Mr. Timmonsasked the Minister of Labour how many boys who trained in the pre-apprenticeship courses in Lanarkshire and finished in June last have found apprenticeships.
§ Mr. P. ThomasOut of 217 boys who finished in June, 192 are known to have found apprenticeships. Others may also have done so.
§ Mr. TimmonsIs the hon. Gentleman aware that his predecessor convened a conference of trade unions, employers and education authorities early in the year and outlined a scheme for the training of these young people who have still not found occupations? Is he aware 371 that I understand from the chairman of the Lanarkshire Education Authority that Lanarkshire is preparing for further education for these young people, but that at the moment it is getting no assistance whatever from the Government? Will he consult the President of the Board of Trade and try to stimulate employment within the whole area? Is he aware that at the moment our unemployment figure averages 4.6 per cent., which is well above the average throughout the country?
§ Mr. ThomasWe are continually in touch with the President of the Board of Trade about the employment situation in Scotland. The pre-apprenticeship courses, to which the Question referred, are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.