§ Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour whether he has any intention of revising the age of reservation in the shipbuilding industry; whether he is aware of the difficulty of securing labour in that industry; and why there should be any difference between the age of reservation for shipbuilding and aircraft production?
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§ Mr. E. BevinThe Schedule of Reserved Occupations is constantly under revision to meet the needs of the Services and of industry, but I have no immediate intention of revising the age of reservation for occupations in the shipbuilding industry, to which a very large measure of reservation has been given. I am aware of the need for labour in this industry, and arrangements have been made, so far as possible, to maintain the supply. Reservation for occupations in the aircraft industry is on the same principle as reservation in the shipbuilding industry. Each occupation is considered on its merits, and reservation is provided at the appropriate age.