§ 102. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the number of unemployed in Singapore and Malaya on 30th November, 1952, and 1953; and what steps are being taken to deal generally with the problem of unemployment in these places and to give financial assistance to the workless.
§ Mr. HopkinsonAs the registration of unemployed persons is not compulsory in either area, the figures sought are not available. In the Federation tentative schemes have been drawn up to reduce unemployment if the numbers become substantial. A Commission with members representing Government employers'248W associations and the Malayan Trades Union Council is examining the problem of unemployment in the tin and rubber industries and its recommendations are awaited. For other measures taken I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to his Question on the 28th October, 1953.
In Singapore the chief employment officer recently seconded from this country by the Ministry of Labour is surveying the problem of unemployment. Methods of meeting it are expected to include the encouragement of light industries and the provision of training.