§ Mr. F. Andersonasked the Minister of Labour for particulars of applications for craftsmen that have been made from the housing contractors in the Ennerdale Rural District Council area, covering the districts of Cleator Moor and Egremont; how many applications have been complied with; how many applications are outstanding; what he intends to do to meet the serious shortage of craftsmen that has been existent for many months; if he is aware that contractors are refusing to tender in this area; and what steps will be taken to overcome the difficulty.
§ Mr. IsaacsThe demands outstanding on local authority housing contracts in this area are for six bricklayers and two hod carriers. Since the contracts started three joiners, 24 bricklayers (including three trainees) and six other craftsmen have been supplied. The main method of overcoming the shortage of craftsmen is to increase the supply by means of the Government Training Scheme which is steadily improving the position.