§ 22. Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Labour what response has been received in his Department from industrial firms to the Government's scheme for industrial training for overseas nationals: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HattersleyNo applications for industrial training attachments under the terms of the new scheme have yet been received from overseas Governments and we have not yet had occasion to approach individual firms. There was however prior consultation with industry before the scheme was introduced and I am confident of support for it.
§ Mr. DalyellSince this is perhaps the most cost-effective policy of help we can give to countries such as India, can my hon. Friend explain why no applications have yet been received? Is it simply the timing?
§ Mr. HattersleyIt is simply the timing. It is a few months since the scheme was finally put into operation, and that is no doubt the only thing that has caused the absence of applications. I have no doubt that the applications will come in large numbers, and they will be met.