asked the Minister of Labour how many apprentices will become redundant when Barry's linoleum factories in Kirkcaldy are closed this month.

I understand that one apprentice electrician will become redundant.

While the number may indeed be small, does the Minister realise that this loss of one apprentice electrician is a quite considerable loss to this country and even more of a tragic loss to the individual concerned who is unable to find a place? This is the second occasion this firm has closed several factories, and in fact this time will be the final one. On the last occasion this apprentice found it most difficult to find suitable alternative employment? What steps does the hon. Gentleman propose to take to ensure that on this occasion he is found a suitable place?

I agree with the hon. Member on his first point, namely, that the number could scarcely be smaller, but at the same time I agree with him that even if the figure is only one it is important to the person concerned and also for everyone else. Efforts are being made to find an opening for this boy with another local firm so that his apprenticeship can continue. Our local officers are in close touch with Barry's and will do all they can to assist.

asked the Minister of Labour what reduction there has been in the number of persons employed in the linoleum industry in Kirkcaldy since January 1963 to the latest available date; and what increase there has been in the number of people in this industry in Staines in this period.

I regret that this information is confidential.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there has been a considerable reduction in the numbers of people employed in the linoleum industry since January, 1963, and that the closure of factories in Kirkcaldy has necessitated an expansion in Staines, and there must be at Staines, if not an increase in the numbers employed, certainly a lower rate of reduction than one would have expected? Is not this a complete reversal of Government policy to encourage, guide and stimulate industry in Scotland? What does he propose to do to reverse the trend? What steps has he taken to provide employment for the 200 people to be declared redundant in Kirkcaldy?

In reply to the first part of the supplementary question, it is certainly unfortunate that these jobs should be lost in Kirkcaldy, particularly since, as the hon. Gentleman rightly states, they have been gained in Staines. However, the decision to make the move was taken in the light of the firm's commercial judgment. There was no power to stand in its way as the firm was moving to existing premises and, therefore, no industrial development certificate was necessary. With regard to employment generally in the area and to the provision of jobs for the people who are declared redundant, the hon. Gentlemen is well aware of all the measures being taken—and being successfully taken—to stimulate employment in this area.

Can the hon. Gentleman say why the particular figures are confidential?

Yes, Sir; because in this case it would involve disclosing information which would reveal directly the numbers employed in individual firms, and it is not the practice to do so.

As the hon. Gentleman is shy about the detailed figures, could he give us any indication by way of percentage increase or decrease?

Not without notice, but I am quite prepared to do so if the hon. Gentleman asks me.