§ Mr. Prescottasked the Minister of Labour how many operatives are still required in the textile industry in the spinning, weaving and finishing sections, respectively; how many of each category it is hoped to obtain by recruitment in this country; and how many by European Voluntary Workers.
§ Mr. IsaacsI would refer the hon. Member to the discussion of labour targets for the textile industries in Chapter II of the Economic Survey for 1948.
172WHome Department that the firemen referred to have been given notice of discharge because they have been serving on temporary engagements. They were aware that they would be given formal notice of discharge when the National Fire Service passes to the control of local authorities on 1st April next. Large numbers of these men have been offered re-appointment as firemen by local authorities. I have no reason to suppose that local authorities will impose arbitrary age limits, and I am sure that they will have regard to the valuable services which these men have rendered to the Fire Service.