§ 12. Mr. Eadieasked the Minister of Power what estimates he has made of manpower in the mining industry in Scotland for 1967.
§ Mr. FreesonIf present trends in recruitment and wastage continue it is estimated that the mining industry in Scotland will employ about 40,000 men by the end of 1967.
§ Mr. EadieIs my hon. Friend aware that, in 1966, mining manpower in Scotland decreased by 3,500 and that there are only now 3,000 men under 25 years of age in the industry? Is he further aware that the miners do not look at entry into the Common Market with any great enthusiasm? Will he not make a categorical statement and give us a national fuel policy?
§ Mr. FreesonAt the risk of repetition, I must point out that many of the Questions and Answers this afternoon have related specifically to a national fuel policy. This is in preparation. The important point regarding the coal-mining industry in Scotland—it may be of help if I tell my hon. Friend this—is that the reduction estimated for 1967 is 2,000, compared with an actual reduction of 3,584 for 1966, which is somewhat of an improvement.
§ Mr. SpriggsDoes not my hon. Friend realise that the repetition to which he referred in relation to my hon. Friend's previous question shows that a sense of urgency is required? Will the Government do something about a fuel and power policy as an urgent matter?
§ Mr. FreesonIf nothing else has been made clear in Questions and Answers this afternoon, I should have thought that it would be perfectly clear that major consideration is being given to this matter.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesHas my hon. Friend any plans for attracting more miners into the industry in Scotland? Does he not think that wages will have to be increased to do so?
§ Mr. FreesonThese are matters for the N.C.B.