§ 12. Mr. WILLIAM THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the unemployment books and stamps have been called in by the various Labour Exchanges and new books issued, but no receipt of any description has been given for the stamps placed upon the old books; if he is aware that work-people generally are complaining about the matter; and if he can state how insured persons can prove the amount of stamps placed upon the old books?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Robertson)The currency of the unemployment books for 1912–13 expired on 12th July last. The old books have accordingly been called in and new books issued. Arrangements have been made by which any workman desiring to know the number of contributions paid in respect of him during the year 1912–13, and the number of days' benefit, if any, he has received, during that period, can obtain a statement of these particulars by filling up a form which may be obtained at any local office of the Unemployment Fund. I think this meets the point raised by my hon. Friend. As a matter of fact, very few complaints have been received as to the absence of a receipt in the new book itself. I am sending to my hon. Friend a copy of the form mentioned above.