§ 15. Dr. Brayasked the Minister of Labour what special arrangements he makes to find employment for the less easily employed left behind after a wave of extra high local unemployment; and what arrangements he is making on Tees-side.
§ Mr. GodberEmployment exchanges keep unemployed people on their registers under regular review and make special approaches to employers on behalf of those who find difficulty in getting employment. A new Government training centre is to be opened at Tees-side which will provide further opportunities for those unemployed who are suitable for vocational training.
§ Dr. BrayIs the Minister aware that in the North-East, the National Assistance Board used to employ special officers for locating men who found it most difficult to get jobs, that these officers no longer work in this capacity and that there are no equivalent officers in the Ministry of Labour? Does not the Minister feel it necessary to set aside special officers to do this work?
§ Mr. GodberWhile I will consider the point that the hon. Member has raised, I have not been aware of any particular difficulty in this sphere. The great thing is to provide more employment opportunities, and that is what we are seeking to do. For example, the hon. Member will be aware of the advance factories which are being located in this area.
§ Mr. GoodhewIs my right hon. Friend aware that this is the only Question on the Order Paper about unemployment? Dees this not bring satisfaction to the whole House?
§ Mr. GodberI am glad that my hon. Friend has pointed out that fact. Undoubtedly, there is not the same pressure in relation to unemployment. I trust that this means that both sides of the House welcome the wise guidance of the Government in implementing their policies.