HC Deb 27 June 1966 vol 730 cc181-2W
51. Mr. Buchanan

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that valuable orders are being lost to British industry by the failure to meet delivery dates due to the shortage of skilled labour, he will take steps by legislation or otherwise to recruit workers from overseas and Northern Ireland, particularly for ship construction; if he is satisfied the fullest possible use is being made of retrained personnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gunter

Apart from Northern Ireland, from which some skilled workers have been recruited for British shipyards and other industries, I am unaware of resources of skilled labour that could be transferred from overseas. Training facilities in Government Training Centres have been expanded and the Industrial Training Boards concerned are encouraging training and retraining within their industries.