asked the Minister of Labour if the 15,000 Poles to be employed in the mines during 1947 is the maximum the mines could absorb; and what are the other restricting factors.

There is no limit of 15,000 on the number of Poles to be employed in the mines. The main limiting factor seems likely to be the rate at which the Poles themselves accept this employment. The rate at which they can be trained and the rate at which they can be absorbed into the mining labour force will, it is intended, be adequate to deal with all available applicants.

Can my hon. Friend say how many Poles will be absorbed during the current year?

That will depend on the rate of recruitment, and the signs of willingness on the part of the Poles to go into this employment.