HC Deb 24 May 1954 vol 528 cc5-6W
Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Minister of Labour what information he has to show why the number of young persons entering the agriculture, forestry and fishing group of industries as apprentices or in preparation for recognised professional qualifications fell from 2,184, in 1950, to 2,128, in 1951, and 1,859 in 1952: and what is the figure for 1953.

Mr. Watkinson

The decrease in the figures referred to is roughly parallel to the general decrease during these years in the numbers of young persons entering industry. The figure for 1953 is 1,882.

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Minister of Labour the average number of girls under 18 years of age registered as unemployed during 1953.

Mr. Watkinson

The average number in Great Britain was 9,785. Nearly one-third of this number were girls who had had no previous employment.