§ Sir E. Graham-Littleasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that out of 1,872 households in the Monmouthshire district canvassed by local billeting authorities to receive young mining trainees, only 17 consented to do so owing to reluctance to take in strangers while sons who are skilled colliery miners are retained in the Forces; to what extent it is this difficulty which will necessitate the provision of hostels for these trainees at a time when the demand for building facilities greatly exceeds supply; and what steps he proposes to take in this matter.
§ Mr. WillinkThe 17 billets were an immediate response to a circular letter. The canvass of this and neighbouring localities is still proceeding. Eighty trainees were lodged in the area on Monday last and lodgings to meet the immediate future needs are already available. I am not aware that householders in this area are refusing lodgings for the reason mentioned. The contemplated provision of hostels is in respect of a general shortage of existing accommodation; the reply to the second part of the Question is therefore "No, Sir," and the last part does not, therefore, arise.
Major Lloydasked the Minister of Labour how many conscripts have been sent from Scotland to the mines.
§ Mr. E. BevinThe transfer of men resident in Scotland who are selected by the Coal Mines Ballot will not begin until the1424W opening of the Scottish Training Centre to which I referred in my reply of 27th January, to my hon. and gallant Friend. I anticipate that this will be within the next few weeks.