HC Deb 27 January 1964 vol 688 cc1-2
1. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Labour what is the current programme of his Manpower Research Unit.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. J. B. Godber)

The Unit's current programme of work is as stated in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Darlington (Mr. Bourne-Arton) on 18th November, 1963. Since then the field work for the inquiry into manpower requirements in the metal manufacturing and metal using industries has been completed and the inquiry into the effect on office work of the introduction of computers has been launched. Proposals for further studies are being considered.

Mr. Boyden

Is there any collaboration between the right hon. Gentleman's unit and the Committee on Scientific Manpower in their researches into the training of and the need for technicians?

Mr. Godber

That is a point on which we certainly should have some contact. At the moment I could not reply specifically off the cuff. I am grateful to the hon. Member for bringing the point to my attention and I will have a look at it.