HC Deb 20 February 1967 vol 741 cc1134-5
24. Mr. Charles Morrison

asked the Minister of Labour when seasonably adjusted monthly employment estimates will be available.

Mr. Fernyhough

Estimates of the total numbers in civil employment are only made quarterly. Seasonally adjusted figures are issued. I hope that seasonally adjusted figures will become available shortly for the monthly series of the total numbers in manufacturing industry and in all industries covered by the Index of Industrial Production.

Mr. Morrison

Can the hon. Gentleman say why the Ministry of Labour has been unable to provide these monthly figures before now, bearing in mind that, at least since early 1964, the National Institute has been able to calculate and publish such figures? Is the D.E.A. forced to work out its own figures for those industries covered by the Index of Industrial Production, for which it is necessary to calculate such figures and for which, presumably, it would appear necessary for the Department to work out its own figures?

Mr. Fernyhough

We are aware of the need for more information, but it is difficult to obtain the necessary staff. Two posts for statisticians have been advertised for two years. Neither has been filled and the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that men of this calibre must be obtained if we are to gather the information for which he is seeking.