§ 32. Mr. McInnesasked the Minister of Labour what is the number of employees, at the latest available date, engaged in the manufacture of wireless valves and electric lamps; and what proportion of those employees is located in Scotland.
§ Mr. HareThe manufacture of wireless valves is now classified with the manufacture of radio and other electronic apparatus, which is being dealt with in a later Question. The manufacture of electric lamps is now classified with the manufacture of other electrical goods, which was covered in my reply to the hon. Member for West Lothian (Mr. Dalyell).
§ Mr. McInnesIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that over the past few years there has been a considerable 404 reduction in the Scottish figures? Ever since 1951 we have been appealing to the right hon. Gentleman and his right hon. Friends to do something to maintain and expand these light industries in Scotland. Will he now tell the House what has transpired between himself and his right hon. Friend—with whom he has apparently had the closest consultations—to remedy this unsatisfactory situation?
§ Mr. HareI do not want to refer again to the number of jobs which have accrued to Scotland under the Local Employment Act since it was brought into effect, because when I do so it merely causes complaint. All I ask is that hon. Members should realise that the Government are doing all they can to see that new industry comes to areas of heavy unemployment.