asked the Minister of Labour how many European volunteer workers it is proposed shall enter this country within the next six months for employment in the textile industry; and if such persons will be trained operatives.

I am afraid I cannot forecast how many European volunteer workers among those to be brought to this country during the next six months will be found suitable, with or without training, for employment in particular industries.

Has not some inquiry been made as to the capacity of these persons, and, if any such inquiry has been made, would not the information asked for be available ?

Yes, Sir, that is quite true, with regard to unattached women, whom we can allocate quite easily and forecast how we can deal with them, but we cannot forecast how many we shall get in the next six months.

asked the Minister of Labour how many European volunteer workers have come to this country since 1st January, 1947; how many have been placed in employment; and at whose expense are the remainder being accommodated in holding camps.

The present scheme for introducing European volunteer workers started towards the end of April. Up to 21st June, some 11,500 had entered this country, and about 3,900 had started work; many more were under submission to employment. Five hundred more arrived on 23rd June. The cost of accommodating them in holding camps until they are placed in employment is borne on public funds.

Is it not a fact that the European voluntary workers are not being readily absorbed, and can the right hon. Gentleman give the reasons why.

The contrary is the fact. They are being absorbed at such a great speed as to prejudice our opportunities of resettling the Poles, and there has been a very good reception for them in industry.