HC Deb 14 June 1965 vol 714 cc29-30
33. Mr. W. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Labour if he will state the number of Government training centres in 1963 and 1964, their capacity in those years, and the estimated numbers and capacity for training of such centres during the years 1965 and 1966.

Mr. Marsh

In January 1963, there were 13 Government training centres with less than 2,500 training places. In January 1964, there were 19 with over 3,000 places. In January 1965, there were 26 with over 4,500 places. By January 1966, there should be 30 centres able to provide about 12,000 trained workers each year. Plans for a further two centres have already been announced and a further expansion is being urgently considered.

Mr. Williams

Is the Minister aware that, on these benches at least, the record of the Government's activities in this sphere will be welcomed? Can he say to what extent, if any researches in this matter have been made, the previous Government's failure to meet this need for retraining has hindered the proper use of our manpower now in Britain?

Mr. Marsh

There is very real need for an increase in retraining facilities to take people from the declining industries and to redeploy them in expanding industries. I think my Answer shows the extent to which the Government have faced up to this problem of shortage of manpower and are pursuing policies which will enable us to stay ahead of other technologically advanced nations.

Mr. Hector Hughes

In considering the activities referred to in this and preceding Questions, what account does my hon. Friend take of the unequal distribution of working power throughout the country, and, in particular, of the drift to the South from the north-east of Scotland, and in view of the differences of incomes, what steps is he taking to stop the drift?

Mr. Marsh

I think the regional planning policies of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs take this matter very much in hand.

Mr. Ronald Bell

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the major expansion of Government training centres from which he and his Minister are profiting was undertaken by the last Administration?

Mr. Marsh

With respect, I think the hon. Gentleman is in this as in other cases a little out of date. Since that time there have been two further expansions by this Government.