§ 8. Mr. Woodnuttasked the Minister of Labour how many persons were employed, or self-employed, in the boatbuilding industry at the last convenient date; and how many were so employed at the first convenient date in 1950.
§ Mr. HareFigures for shipbuilding are available but I regret that separate figures for boatbuilding are not kept.
§ Mr. WoodnuttI thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that small boatbuilding and the sailing of small boats are growing in popularity? In view of the enormous increase in production of small craft and the parlous state of the shipbuilding industry, will he ask the President of the Board of Trade to give special consideration to firms which apply to him for financial assistance to increase their present boatbuilding yards?
§ Mr. HareI suggest that my hon. Friend puts that matter to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade. I will ensure that what my hon. Friend has just said is also made available to my right hon. Friend.