HC Deb 25 March 1963 vol 674 cc945-6
44. Mr. Pentland

asked the Minister of Labour what recent consultations he has had on proposals to reduce unemployment in the north-east of England.

Mr. Whitelaw

My right hon. Friend is in constant touch with the other Ministers concerned with this problem. In addition, he has had consultations with employers' organisations and trade unions about the expansion of training facilities in the North-East which is essential if future industrial development in the area is not to be hampered by shortages of skilled labour.

Mr. Pentland

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that, despite the drop in the figures of temporary unemployment disclosed last week, basic unemployment in the North-East continues to rise? Therefore, can he say when we may expect the much publicised plan from Lord Hailsham? Can we expect this to be put into effect in the very near future, because the problem is serious?

Mr. Whitelaw

I am sure the hon. Gentleman appreciates that, apart from the general measures taken to stimulate the economy as a whole, a considerable number of steps have already been taken aimed particularly at improving the situation in the North-East. The hon. Gentleman also knows the very active work undertaken by my noble Friend the Lord President of the Council.

Mr. P. Williams

Is my hon. Friend aware that one of the areas where help could be given without any large contribution having to be made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer is in British shipping? Can he say whether the Government intend to make a statement on the scrap and build policy in the very near future?

Mr. Whitelaw

That supplementary question is rather outside the realm of my responsibility.

Mr. Pentland

Since the Prime Minister appointed Lord Hailsham to look after the affairs of the North-East and asked him to present a definite plan for the area, can the hon. Gentleman answer the second part of my supplementary question and tell me when we can expect to have this plan?

Mr. Whitelaw

I cannot give the exact date of when my noble Friend's plan will be ready, but in view of the great urgency he has shown throughout, I can assure the hon. Gentleman that it will not be long.