§ 9. Mr. Woofasked the Minister of Labour what plans he now has for increasing first-year apprenticeship train- 6 ing courses and adult training facilities in Government training centres in the North-East.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Joseph Godber)During the present year I plan to increase the training places for first year apprentices from 84 to 108 and for adults from 212 to about 700.
§ Mr. WoofIs the Minister aware that, in the task of reshaping the North-East, we shall need to look ahead for many years to meet the changing pattern of demand? Is he further aware of the serious run-down in the labour force in many of the older industries and the need for complete reorganisation involved in the change in the structure of industry? Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the retraining schemes are inadequate to ensure that the potential of available labour is brought to the full and in order to achieve economic stability?
§ Mr. GodberI realise the importance of this subject. I share the hon. Member's view expressed in the first part of his supplementary question. I would point out that the annual figure for adult retraining, the actual throughput, would be twice the figure I gave, since it is a six months' course and, therefore, the figure would be 1,400 and not 700. That is a substantial increase over everything that we have done yet, but I am keeping the matter under review.
§ Dame Irene WardHas my right hon. Friend got the full co-operation of the employers and trade unions in this very important work which is being undertaken by his Department? Is he aware that this is very much welcomed on the North-East Coast?
§ Mr. GodberIn general, we have co-operation. There are one or two problems which have arisen, but we are keeping in very close touch.