HC Deb 09 May 1966 vol 728 cc37-9
53. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Labour if he will state the number of unemployed in Great Britain, including Northern Ireland, at the most recent date; and what steps he is taking to reduce this number.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

On 18th April, 1966, there were 307,345 registered unemployed in Great Britain and 29,902 in Northern Ireland.

The services of our Ministry for placing, rehabilitation and training are being developed and expanded in order to help reduce the number of unemployed. I understand that the Government of Northern Ireland are also making every effort to reduce unemployment.

Mr. Allaun

I am glad that the figure is not higher, but is not my hon. Friend aware that it could be far lower? Indeed, our figure is twice that of France and three times that of West Germany. Why is this? Would my hon. Friend give these facts to the gentleman who was talking about over-full employment in Britain, and pressing for deflation?

Mrs. William

My hon. Friend will be aware that we share his view that unemployment can be reduced even further. To this end, the employment service is being enlarged, the staff has been increased, a new vocational training service has been introduced. In addition, my hon. Friend will be aware that efforts in the new field of industrial training will make this country catch up with and, I hope, pass some of the countries he has mentioned that have in the past advanced on this front faster than we have.

Mr. Stratton Mills

Does the hon. Lady feel that the new Selective Employment Tax will help or hinder this process?

Mrs. Williams

It is our view that it will help this process—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."]—in manufacturing industry, where the shortages are most severe.

Sir K. Joseph

The Parliamentary Secretary has made a most important statement. Is she telling us that it is Government policy over the next few months to increase the number of employed—that is, to decrease the number of unemployed? Is that her assurance on behalf of the Government? Will she point out to the hon. Member for Salford, East (Mr. Frank Allaun) that in the countries he quoted remarkably different circumstances obtain? Will she agree—[HON. MEMBERS: "Speech."]—that Germany imports the unemployed of other countries, and that France has a great— [HON. MEMBERS: "Speech."]—this is a very important subject—

Mr. Speaker

It may be important, but as I reprove Ministers for being lengthy, I must also reprove shadow Ministers.

Mrs. Williams

The Government stand by the policy of full employment and believe that everybody capable of doing it should as far as possible be in a job.

Mr. Shinwell

Does my hon. Friend know that there is nothing which hon. Members opposite like more than plenty of unemployment?

Mr. Ridley

Is the hon. Lady aware that her own Ministry has said that, of the total number, 60 per cent. are not genuinely seeking employment? Will she take steps to make sure that the figures published actually reflect the number of people looking for employment?

Mrs. Williams

The position of the Ministry is not that 60 per cent. are not genuinely seeking employment, but that a number have particular difficulties in finding employment as a result of handicap or disablement or difficulties of age. It is the policy of the Government to try to meet those difficulties, which are beyond the power of the individual to meet, in every possible way.

Mr. Speaker

Order. We have done well today by short sharp questions and answers. I congratulate the House.