§ Mr. Harry Howarthasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that there is a considerable number of boot and shoe operatives on short time; if he has estimated what percentage is so underemployed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FernyhoughIt is estimated that in the week ended 14th January, 13,100 boot and shoe operatives were on short time. This represented about 15 per cent. of all operatives classified to the industry. The average time lost per week was a little under 7 hours. I understand that the short-time working, the extent of which has fallen somewhat since the peak in December, is due to a wide variety of factors.