HC Deb 22 May 1969 vol 784 cc645-6
23. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity which industrial training boards make provision in their schemes for grants for the training of shop stewards.

Mr. Hattersley

Twenty do so already and others have the matter under consideration. I will, with permission, circulate the details in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

In view of the importance of shop stewards in a modern industrial society, will the hon. Gentleman see whether successful schemes can be spread over a wider basis?

Mr. Hattersley

It is essentially an obligation on training boards to promote that sort of training. They have already been encouraged to do so by the circular sent out by the Central Training Council. The 20 boards have received copies of that circular.

Following is the information:

  1. 1. Industrial Training Boards which will grant aid the training of shop stewards: Agricultural, Horticultural and Forestry; Carpet; Ceramics, Glass and Mineral Products; Chemical and Allied Products; Civil Air Transport; Construction; Cotton and Allied Textiles; Engineering; Food, Drink and Tobacco; Furniture and Timber; Gas; Hotel and Catering; Iron and Steel; Knitting, Lace and Net; Man-Made Fibres; Paper and Paper Products; Petroleum; Shipbuilding; Water Supply; Wool, Jute and Flax.
  2. 2. The Electricity Supply Industrial Training Board operates a limited grant scheme, but actively recommends and encourages release on pay for selected courses agreed jointly with the unions.
  3. 3. Industrial Training Boards actively considering grant aid in this field: Distributive; 646 Footwear, Leather and Fur Skin; Printing and Publishing; Road Transport; Rubber and Plastic.