§ 50. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Labour how many registered unemployed there are now in the town of Maybole; in what employments and trades there are shortages of jobs; and what action he is taking to find alternative employment for these people.
§ Mr. WhitelawMaybole lies within the area of the Ayr Employment Exchange where, on 9th December, there were 1,572 registered as unemployed. Nearly half of these were last employed in construction, catering or distribution. Our local officers are doing all they can to find suitable employment for all those who seekour assistance.
§ 51. Mr. N. Pentlandasked the Minister of Labour to what extent his Department is studying the application of automation and its effects on production, employment and social life.
§ Mr. Joseph GodberMy Department collects and studies information about the effects of automation and other technological change on human relations in industry and is at present carrying out a number of case studies in individual firms. As regards the effects on employment, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on 18th November to my hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and St. Pancras, South. The150W effects on production are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development.