§ Mr. Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) what evidence has been sent to him or to the Manpower Services Commission regarding skill shortages in the textile industry generally, and specifically in hosiery and knitwear; and what discussions are being held with employers and trade unions to seek to overcome any obstacles to the recruitment of labour;
(2) whether he will request the Manpower Services Commission to send a task force to Leicester to prepare a report for him on the difficulties for employers in the hosiery and knitwear industry in filling vacancies for skilled workers; and whether he will request an early report on this matter.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonI am aware of the concerns expressed by my hon. Friend and have seen the reports in theLeicester Mercury.
391WI have therefore asked the Manpower Services Commission to look into the issue as a matter of urgency and to report to me as quickly as possible. Following this investigation, it will be for the commission, in consultation with employers and trade unions, to decide what needs to be done to tackle any problems it may identify in this area. I will, of course, keep my hon. Friend fully informed about developments.