HC Deb 10 December 1962 vol 669 cc7-8W
54. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Minister of Labour how many building trade workers were unemployed in the St. Helens area in each year since 1958; what were the figures at the latest convenient date; what are the prospects for future employment in the building trade in the Merseyside area; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hare

The mid-November figures were:

  • 177 in 1958
  • 146 in 1959
  • 149 in 1960, and
  • 143 in 1961.

On 12th November, 1962, the figure was 233. The demand for labour in the construction industry has fallen this year both on Merseyside and over the country as a whole. It is, however, likely to rise again next year. Merseyside should also benefit from the increase in public investment recently announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.