§ 56. Mr. Edelmanasked the Minister of Supply his estimate of the number of men likely to be made redundant in the aircraft industry in the years 1958–59 and 1959–60, in view of the proposed substitution of guided missiles for conventional military aircraft; and what plans he has for using the services of the highly-skilled men who would otherwise become redundant.
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§ Mr. Aubrey JonesIt is not possible to distinguish the introduction of guided missiles from other factors, such as the reduction in military requirements, affecting the size of the aircraft industry. Between April and September this year about 5,000 workers left the industry. I expect this decline to continue, though I cannot predict the rate because it will depend largely on the industry's success in obtaining additional orders for civil aircraft and for export and new work outside the aircraft field. To the extent that it proves impossible for companies to retain their skilled employees, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service will assist in finding other suitable employment.