§ 1. Mr. Carterasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the current employment situation.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Employment (Mr. John Fraser)The rise in unemployment which began during the period of 3-day-week working has been halted and there is a strong demand for labour in most industries.
§ Mr. CarterI thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Will he confirm that the Government regard the present unemployment figures as too high and will continue to pursue and maintain a policy of full employment as a first priority?
§ Mr. FraserI accept that the figures are too high. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has made clear that, if necessary, he will introduce a second Budget to make any necessary adjustments to influence demand and to keep up the level of employment.
§ Mr. NottIs it the case that the Department of the Environment and other Government Departments are urging regional water authorities and other quasi local government bodies to place contracts with the construction industry as urgently as possible because of the serious position of that industry? If so, should not the Chancellor of the Exchequer make a statement about his policy in this public sector?
§ Mr. FraserThose are both questions for other Departments, one for the Department of the Environment and the other for the Treasury. It is true that the construction industry has not been so buoyant, but it is hoped that the recent Government loan to building societies will help to stimulate demand in the housing sector.