asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has now any further statement to make relative to the question of the employment of youths in coalmining, particularly with regard to a scheme of apprenticeship to that industry?

The problem of ensuring a sufficient number of boys and youths for mining employment, including the question of apprenticeship, is now under consideration by an independent committee under the chairmanship of Sir John Forster. I am unable to make any further statement pending the report of the committee.

Does not the Minister agree that, in view of the fuel situation, this matter is very urgent?

It is receiving urgent consideration now. There are daily meetings on the subject.

When is the committee likely to report?

I cannot say, but it will be soon.

Is the Minister considering making a recruiting appeal to the public schools and universities of this country?

I have not considered it.