§ Mr. Naylorasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the recent discharges of workers from aircraft work in London; and what action it is proposed to take to reabsorb the discharged workers in other employment.
§ Mr. TomlinsonYes, Sir, and as there is some concern in various quarters arising out of a recent demonstration by certain workpeople employed in aircraft work in London who are apprehensive about their becoming unemployed in the near future, I think the House would like to know the facts. About 1,800 workers are expected to become available from the main factory of the group in question over the next two months—about 300 of them almost immediately. Consultation is taking place with the management and representatives of the workers regarding the selection of workers for release. Workers from the other factories of the group will become available at later dates, spread up to March and April of next year. At one factory releases in any number are not expected to begin for two or three months. No special difficulty is anticipated in finding the workers concerned alternative employment, as there is still a great need for workers for war and other work in London.