HC Deb 13 March 1963 vol 673 cc1340-1
20. Mr. Willis

asked the Minister of Labour what estimate he has made of the number of jobs lost in agriculture, mining and quarrying in Scotland in the second half of 1962.

Mr. Hare

The only reliable and comprehensive figures for these industries in Scotland are those derived from changes in the numbers employed and relate to the middle of the year. Later changes can be estimated only for manufacturing industries. Between mid-1961 and mid-1962, however, there was a fall of about 3,000 in agriculture and horticulture and 6,700 in mining and quarrying.

Mr. Willis

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if the rate continues for the period mentioned in the Question, then the number of jobs lost during the last six months of last year alone will be about 15,000? When are the Government going to do something for Scotland in order to try to compensate for this?

Mr. Hare

In answer to a previous Question I said that it was the Government's intention to do all they can to ensure that new industry is attracted to Scotland, that Scotland gets a far greater diversification and becomes less dependent on its older industries.

Mr. Stodart

Would my right lion. Friend agree, particularly with his Knowledge and experience of the agricultural industry, that agriculture, and particularly agriculture in Scotland, has never been in a higher state of efficiency despite its shortage of manpower?

Mr. Hare

Yes, Sir; I believe that to be true.

Mr. Willis

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that as a result of the Government's efforts we got only 9,000 new jobs last year, and if we lose jobs at the rate of 15,000 in six months, that is a very small contribution?

Mr. Hare

That is precisely why the Government want to do all they can to increase the provision of new jobs.