HC Deb 25 March 1968 vol 761 cc881-2
1. Mr. Cordle

asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of persons unemployed in Bournemouth and the number of unfilled vacancies at the latest available date.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. R. J. Gunter)

At March, 1968, there were 3,380 persons registered as unemployed in the area covered by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Employment Exchanges and 1,290 notified vacancies remained unfilled.

Mr. Cordle

Since an unfair burden will be laid upon the hotel industry—

Mr. Atkinson

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Might I draw your attention to the fact that the amplification system does not appear to be working? We cannot hear what is being said.

Mr. Speaker

I cannot hear the hon. Member for Tottenham (Mr. Atkinson) because the microphones are not working. Mr. Atkinson, a point of order?

Mr. Atkinson

That was my point of order, Mr. Speaker. I was attempting to direct your attention to the fact that the amplification system is not working.

Mr. Speaker

Perhaps Ministers and hon. Members will speak up.

Mr. Cordle

As Bournemouth relies heavily on employment in the hotel industry, is it possible for the Minister to look again at the unfair burden imposed on that industry by the Selective Employment Tax?

Mr. Gunter

I cannot give the hon. Gentleman the answer that he has asked for.

Mr. Atkinson

We cannot hear.

Mr. Gunter

There has been a slight improvement in the position in Bournemouth since January. Another complication at the moment is that Bournemouth is such a delightful salubrious spot that it attracts a large number of retired people, and a quarter of the unemployed male persons on the register are men over 60.