HC Deb 24 April 1961 vol 639 cc2-3W
29. Mr. Neal

asked the Minister of Power what shortage of manpower exists in the coal-mining industry; and what remedial steps are being taken to stop wastage.

Mr. George

There are vacancies in the industry for juveniles, skilled craftsmen and, especially in the Midlands, Yorkshire and South Wales, for underground workers generally. In order to arrest wastage and encourage recruitment, the Board is taking vigorous steps to inspire confidence in the industry's future.

Mr. Neal

asked the Minister of Power what were the comparable figures of juvenile recruitment in the coal industry in the first quarter of 1961 and the first quarter of 1960.

Mr. George

The provisional figure for the first quarter of 1961 is 3,400 compared with 2,872 in the first quarter of 1960.

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