HC Deb 09 March 1964 vol 691 cc11-2
16. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Labour how many employees of milk factories in Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall have recently become unemployed, owing to shortage of milk for manufacturing purposes.

Mr. Whitelaw

I understand from the information given by employers to our local officers that, since 1st October, 1963, between 40 and 50 persons have become unemployed in this area because of a reduction in the supply of milk for manufacturing purposes.

Mr. Digby

Is my hon. Friend aware that the situation is becoming quite serious, particularly in milk factories specialising in cheese-making, and that there is a lot of hidden unemployment as there has been virtually no cheese-making in my area since November? Will my right hon. Friend contact his right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture about the position?

Mr. Whitelaw

I know that my hon. Friend asked my right hon. Friend some

an assurance that the Government will honour their pledge not to interfere with the public service investment and incentives to industry until the area is able to generate its own growth?

Mr. Godber

I have pointed out that the position is improving. Of course, it is not satisfactory—I do not say that it is—but it is definitely improving. The underlying trend is good. A number of new projects are coming forward, and even at this time of year, when there is usually an increase, there has been a fall of over 4,000 in unemployment. I think, therefore, that the underlying trend is good, and I hope that the projects which are presently coming forward will help materially.

Following is the information:

Questions on this subject, so my right hon. Friend is fully aware of my hon. Friend's point of view. I will certainly see that the additional notice of this Question is given to him.