HC Deb 25 May 1921 vol 142 cc160-1W
Mr. LYLE

asked the Minister of Labour if he can inform the House in what three industries, apart from the coal industry, there is the greatest amount of unemployment?

Dr. MACNAMARA

If whole-time unemployment alone is taken into account, the three industries, apart from the coal industry, with the highest rates of unemployment on 6th May were: Pottery, earthenware, etc., 75 per cent.; iron, steel and tinplate, 37 per cent.; and glass, 35 per cent. If short-time working is also included, precise figures with regard to the rate of unemployment cannot be given, but the industries with the highest rates of unemployment on this basis appear to be: Pottery, earthenware, etc.; iron, steel and tiplate; linen and hemp; cotton; jute; bolts, nuts, etc.; glass; woollen and worsted; and lace.