§ 10. Mr. F. Leeasked the Minister of Labour how many group apprenticeship schemes were set up during 1960; and in which industries they were established.
§ Mr. HareI am informed that there are five such schemes. Four are for engineering apprentices, and one for commercial apprentices.
§ Mr. LeeIs not that reply very unsatisfactory? We know that the general shortage of skilled personnel in industry is very grave. Does the right hon. Gentleman feel that the powers which Lord McCorquodale's Committee has 10 within the general scheme are sufficient? If we are to have complete neglect by hundreds of relatively small and middle-sized firms of the opportunity of joint schemes of this sort, should we not consider some way in which we can penalise them for their neglect?
§ Mr. HareI share the hon. Member's concern. In view of this disappointing response, this month and next my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary and I will attend regional conferences all over the country under the auspices of the I.T.C. and the Ministry of Labour to try to bring these problems home to people on the spot. Any help which hon. Members on either side of the House can give in this connection will be gratefully received.