HC Deb 28 July 1960 vol 627 cc205-6W
Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Labour the number and percentage of unemployed in the Stornoway area at the most recent count, and the number in each of the islands of Barra, North Uist, Benbecula and South Uist.

Mr. P. Thomas

On 11 th July, 1,033 or 19.1 per cent., and 90, 60. 29 and 120 respectively.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Labour how many of those unemployed in the Stornoway area have been unemployed for a period of over three, six, nine, and 12 months, respectively.

Mr. P. Thomas

The following table gives the information desired:

NUMBER OF PERSONS REGISTERED AT STORNOWAY EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE WHO AT 13TH JUNE, 1960* HAVE BEEN CONTINUOUSLY UNEMPLOYED FOR OVER THREE MONTHS
Duration of Unemployment Males Females Total
Over 3 and up to 6 months 148 14 162
Over 6 and up to 9 months 113 11 124
Over 9 and up to 12 months 81 8 89
Over 12 months 430 12 442
*Detailed analyses by duration of unemployment are obtained only at quarter dates.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Labour to what extent he anticipates that unemployment in the Stornoway area will be reduced during the coming months through the introduction of new industry with the aid of the provisions of the Local Employment Act, 1960, and to what extent for other reasons.

Mr. P. Thomas

I am not in a position to make any firm forecast.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Labour what reduction, other than purely seasonal, in unemployment in the isuands of Barra, North and South Uist and Benbecula, he expects in the coming months; and what are the factors on which he bases his estimate of a reduction.

Mr. P. Thomas

I am not in a position to make any firm forecast.