HC Deb 03 June 1937 vol 324 cc1152-3
10. Mr. J. J. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour what was the total number of unemployed persons in Glasgow defined as seasonal workers for the year 1936.

Mr. E. Brown

The unemployment statistics compiled by my Department do not distinguish separately persons classified as seasonal workers. During the year 1936, 223 claims to benefit made at employment exchanges in the large burgh of Glasgow were considered by courts of referees under the Anomalies (Seasonal Workers) Order. Of these 48 were allowed and 175 were disallowed. These figures may include some cases in which the claimants concerned resided outside Glasgow.

Mr. Davidson

Is the Minister aware that Glasgow being near certain coast resorts, these people are forced to take seasonal employment because of the lack of permanent employment in the city itself; and will he undertake at least to give defined seasonal workers in Glasgow more consideration that they have received up to the present?

Mr. Brown

The hon. Member has overlooked the fact that recently I passed an Order which alleviated some of these conditions.

Mr. Davidson

Is the Minister aware that there are still many seasonal workers in Glasgow who have taken seasonal employment only because of the lack of permanent employment in Glasgow?