HC Deb 27 January 1964 vol 688 cc5-6
6. Mr. Bence

asked the Minister of Labour how many youths and girls below the age of 20 years are registered as unemployed at the Clydebank employment exchange.

Mr. Godber

On 13th January, 153 youths and 95 girls below the age of 20 were registered at the Clydebank employment exchange and youth employment office.

Mr. Bence

That is a disgraceful figure. I am shocked that it is as high as that. Would not the Minister agree that the placing of these young people into industry is becoming progressively difficult partly because of technological change and progress in the industries already existing? Will the right hon. Gentleman get in touch with his right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade and see whether more industrial land in the Borough of Clydebank can be made available for industries that would like to go there?

Mr. Godber

I should like to consider the last part of that question to see whether we can do that. On the general point, I would only say that I accept that the figures are serious. I do not think it should be forgotten, however, that of 245 boys and girls who left school in this area at the end of the Christmas term only 25 are still seeking employment.

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