HC Deb 24 November 1953 vol 521 cc20-1W
81. Sir W. Wakefield

asked the Minister of Labour if he is satisfield that the hostel system, costing £980,000, is still justified; and when it is to be terminated.

Mr. Watkinson

Yes. It is still essential to provide hostel accommodation to retain workers in priority employment, particularly on export and defence work. The provision is being curtailed as rapidly as the need allows and in spite of rising costs this year's estimated charge to the Exchequer is 15 per cent. below the actual cost last year. I cannot venture to forecast when the need for industrial hostels will have ceased altogether.