§ 52. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Labour how many young people under 18 years of age are unemployed in Kent, Erith and Bexley, respectively; and what were the comparable figures for 1962.
§ Mr. WhitelawOn 11th March, 1963, 1,602 in Kent, 42 in Erith and 34 in Bexley. In March, 1962, 882 in Kent, 23 in Erith and 18 in Bexley.
§ 53. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Labour, in view of concern in Kent at the deteriorating situation of the employment of young people where increasing numbers are staying on at school because of being unable to find work, what are prospects for the next six months; what is being done to provide training centres for young people; and what consideration has been given to utilise the equipment and staff at the Apprentice Training School at Woolwich, which is to be closed.
§ Mr. HareUnemployment among young people in Kent fell by 24 per cent. between February and March and I am hopeful that it will continue to fall in the coming months.
I do not think the situation calls for the provision of training centres for young persons in the area at present. I understand that no decision has been taken to close down the Apprentice Training School at Woolwich, although the intake of apprentices is being temporarily suspended there. However, there are Questions about this matter down to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War.