HC Deb 12 December 1966 vol 738 cc11-2
13. Mr. G. Campbell

asked the Minister of Labour what additional action he is now taking to help young persons to find jobs in the North-East of Scotland.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

Youth employment officers are always ready to give all possible assistance to young persons seeking employment.

Mr. Campbell

Does the Minister realise that the Selective Employment Tax has begun to reduce the number of jobs available in the services she mentioned just now and, since the manufacturing industry in the area is limited, will she ensure that these people do not have to move South to get work?

Mrs. Williams

We are keeping a very close eye on the effects of the Selective Employment Tax, but I point out to the hon. Gentleman that unemployment is lower in Aberdeen, which has the largest concentration of manufacturing in the area, although I agree with him that it is higher outside the Aberdeen town area. Only 12 out of the 2,370 summer school leavers are still unemployed in the whole area.