asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of unemployed persons in the Newcastleon-Tyne area at present; how this number compares with the last three, six, and 12 months, respectively; and what diminution, if any, is attributable to the order recently given for the building of a battleship on the Tyne?

The number of persons registered at Employment Exchanges in the Newcastle area at 16th April, 1923, was 20,142, as compared with 21,447 on 1st January, 1923, 19,250 on 2nd October, 1922 and 17,904 on 3rd April, 1922. It is not possible to say what part of the recent decrease is due to the contract referred to.

What stage of the building of the battleship was reached, and what was the number of men employed?

I do not want to shirk the issue, but that question really ought to be addressed to the Admiralty.