§ 40. Mr. Boydenasked the Minister of Power in what areas there is a shortage of mineworkers; and in what types of job.
§ Mr. WoodShortage of mineworkers is mainly confined to the Midlands, Yorkshire and parts of South Wales. Vacancies exist for juveniles, for mechanics and electricians and for underground workers generally.
§ Mr. BoydenCan the hon. Gentleman say what steps are being taken to remedy the shortages?
§ Mr. WoodThe steps being taken are a resumption of recruitment from June, 1960, and, as the hon. Gentleman no doubt knows, the rate of wastage, which was then going up very quickly, slowed up in the last half of 1960 and is now about static.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in order to obtain sufficient recruits the Army, the Navy and the Royal Air Force have substantially raised rates of pay? Will he advise the National Coal Board to take a leaf out of the Services' book?