asked the Taoiseach the proportion of the manufacturing labour force presently unemployed.

(Dún Laoghaire): Labour force estimates are compiled for mid-April of each year. It is estimated that in mid-April 1984 the number of persons on the live register classified to manufacturing industry was 21.6 per cent of the estimated manufacturing labour force.

Is the Minister of State aware that that figure was 16 per cent in 1982 and 19 per cent in 1983? He is now informing the House that it has risen to 21 per cent, an increase of 5 per cent since 1982 in the deterioration of our manufacturing industry. Is the Minister aware that it has increased by almost 5 per cent in two years and that this is the base of the Irish economy? Is the Minister aware that the unemployment figure generally of about 16 per cent hides and masks that alarming 21 per cent which is hidden in one of our most crucial sectors, manufacturing industry?

(Dún Laoghaire): I answered the question I was asked. I told the Deputy that 21.6 per cent of the estimated manufacturing labour force was unemployed.

Is the Minister of State aware and concerned that that figure was only 16 per cent two years ago?

This is a statistical question.

Is the Minister of State aware that that statistic has increased by 5 per cent in two years and is away out of line with ordinary unemployment? Will the Minister of State admit that the industrial policy published by the Government is not working? To have 21 per cent unemployment in manufacturing industry is a total disgrace. It is 5 per cent above average.

That may be so but the Deputy's question is a matter for another Minister. This is a statistical question.

Is the Minister of State concerned about this?

That does not matter on a statistical question. The Minister of State has given information about figures.

A moment ago the Taoiseach told us that any Minister in his administration was capable of answering any question about Government policy.

(Dún Laoghaire): Provided a relevant question about Government policy is put to a Minister.

I am sure Deputy Haughey is well aware of the long standing procedure in regard to statistical questions.

I am well aware that the Government have thrown in the towel on unemployment. They did so long ago.

To have 21 per cent unemployment in manufacturing industry is a disgrace.