§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is aware that between June, 1970, and April, 1971, the number of operatives on short-time working in manufacturing industries in Great Britain increased from 32,000 to 90,000; what was the reason for this increase; what action he has taken or intends taking to restore the June, 1970, figure; and why he is not able to give the figures for Scotland, Wales and the Northern Region.
§ Mr. BryanAlmost half the increase in short-time working in manufacturing industries between June, 1970, and April, 1971, was in the textile industry.
The increase in short-time working generally, like the increase in unemployment, should be halted and eventually reduced as the Government's various measures progressively take effect.
The information on short-time working is derived from a sample inquiry which provides results only for Great Britain as a whole.