HC Deb 27 November 1959 vol 614 cc77-8W
Commander Pursey

asked the Minister of Labour what were the numbers of unemployed in Hull, in October, 1951, and October, 1959, respectively what were the causes of the increase; and what steps he intends to take to reduce this unemployment this winter.

Mr. E. Heath

At 12th October, 1959, there were 5,041 persons on the registers of the employment exchanges and youth employment offices in Hull and Hessle compared with 3,226 at 15th October, 1951. The main differences between the two figures were in respect of the construction industries (largely due to the completion of war damage repairs) and in the distribution, shipbuilding, fishing and sea transport industries (partly due to the rather slow recovery of Hull from the recent decline in world trade). My local officers will continue their efforts to find suitable vacancies for the unemployed.

Commander Pursey

asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of disabled men and women who are unemployed in Hull, and the number who are to be trained at Government training centres, industrial rehabilitation units, Remploy factories and other establishments, respectively.

Mr. P. Thomas

On 19th October, 670 registered disabled persons were unemployed in Hull. I cannot forecast how many will make use in the future of the facilities named, but in the last six months 283 disabled persons from the area have started on industrial rehabilitation courses, 17 on vocational training courses and 19 have been placed with Remploy or in other sheltered employment.

Commander Pursey

asked the Minister of Labour what are the latest quarterly figures of unemployed men in Hull who have been out of work for over twelve months, six months, and three months, respectively.

Mr. Heath

The following Table gives the information desired: Numbers of wholly unemployed men aged 18 and over on the registers of the Hull and Hessle Employment Exchanges at 14th September, 1959.

Duration of unemployment in weeks Number
Over 52 669
Over 26 and up to 52 401
Over 13 and up to 26 331
Up to 13 weeks 2,314
Total, wholly unemployed 3,715