HC Deb 29 January 1934 vol 285 cc35-6
52. Mr. LYONS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state the cost of restoring one-half of the cuts made to unemployment benefits in 1931?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)

I have been asked to reply. The restoration of one-half of the reduction in rates of benefit made in October, 1931, would increase the amount of benefit, in respect of the present number of claimants, by about £2,200,000 per annum. This figure does not include transitional payments.

Mr. LYONS

Is the hon. Gentleman in a position to say whether, when circumstances permit, the restoration of these benefits will be the first consideration of the Government?

Sir H. CROFT

Will the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind the very great cut of something like 30 per cent. on those who used to receive interest on War Loan?