§ 7. Mr. Hamlingasked the Minister of Labour what proposals have been made to him by the employers' organisations and trade unions in the printing industry on changes in the system of apprenticeship.
§ Mr. GunterNone, Sir, but I welcome the measures to increase the recruitment of apprentices recently agreed by the Joint Ma-power Committee set up by the printing industry.
§ Mr. HamlingIs my right hon. Friend aware that in the interests of productivity 6 and improving industry such changes in the apprentice schemes as are suggested in the Question are most necessary?
§ Mr. GunterYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Ronald BellWould the Minister bear in mind that it is most disappointing that nothing has yet been done, although one understands that something is being attempted to be done? Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the printing industry is about the worst in the country for restrictive practices—[HON. MEMBERS: "Lawyers."]—and that something is urgently needed to be done? I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will not talk about lawyers in his answer.
§ Mr. GunterFirst of all, it was not I who mentioned lawyers. Secondly, there is no one in this House who offers me as much temptation as the hon. Gentleman does to make indiscreet statements as Minister of Labour.