HC Deb 22 May 1963 vol 678 cc430-1
35. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the number of young people totally unemployed in Fife county increased from 370 in mid May, 1962, to 625 in May, 1963; and to what extent the measures he proposes will arrest the deterioration.

Mr. Whitelaw

Yes, Sir. But the final figure for May is 610. Much of the county is scheduled as a development district and young persons, like older workers, should benefit from the recent measures taken to assist these areas. The Youth Employment Service will continue to do all it can to find suitable jobs for unemployed young people.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister aware that we are sick and tired of hearing what the Government are going to do? Is he aware that they have been going to do things for 12 years but that virtually nothing has happened? Would it not be a good idea if Members of the Treasury Bench were paid by results?

Mr. Whitelaw

I would not seek to comment on that last point. I would, however, say to the hon. Member that I am not stating what the Government are going to do or what will happen. Both to the hon. Member and to many of his hon. Friends this afternoon, I have been stating what the Government have done and the results that will be achieved thereby.