§ Mr. TURNERasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the thousands of women textile workers who are now out of work, or on very short time; and can he provide any useful schemes of employment of a temporary sort for these women, most of whom are experts at their work, and whose industrial efficiency it is desirable to maintain?
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§ Sir M. BARLOWI regret to note that the number of women textile workers unemployed or working short time is considerable. It has hitherto not been found practicable to deal directly with unemployment among women, especially those normally employed in a skilled industry, by the provision of relief work, but I should be glad to consider any suggestions in this connection which the hon. Member may be able to make. Meantime, I would refer the hon. Member to my statement in the House on 1st August, showing the plans of the Government to stimulate normal trade activity, which alone can be of real benefit to the women textile workers.