§ 59. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir S. HOAREasked the Prime Minister if he will say what decision has been reached by the Cabinet with reference to the continuance or discontinuance of the present rates of unemployment benefit to men and women; what is the number of men and women now receiving it; and what is the weekly amount that is at present being expended upon it?
§ Mr. PARKERI have been asked to take this question. It is not proposed to restrict the provisions of the out-of-work donation scheme now in operation except as regards the modification applying to Ireland which was announced in the reply to the hon. and learned Member for York on 17th February.
The number of active policies lodged at Employment Exchanges on 7th February was as follows:
| Men. | Women. | Boys. | Girls. | Total. |
| Civilians— | ||||
| 191,371 | 427,734 | 24,538 | 26,790 | 670,433 |
| H.M. Forces— | ||||
| 63,277 | 380 | — | — | 63,657 |
| 254,648 | 428,114 | 24,538 | 26,790 | 734,090 |
§ The average weekly amount paid out during the last three weeks under this scheme is £950,000.
§ Sir S. HOAREDo I understand that it is proposed to continue the present rate of benefits at the expiration of the thirteen weeks, which expiration takes place, I believe, in about a fortnight's time?
§ Mr. PARKERI think the hon. Member had better put the question down, as I am not in a position to give a reply.
§ Mr. DEVLINCan the hon. Gentleman say why Ireland is being discriminated against in this matter?
§ Mr. PARKERI am afraid I cannot, but if the hon. Member will put a question down I will try and get a reply.
§ Mr. DEVLINI did put a question down, and the hon. Gentleman's representative stated that it was on information received. I want to know from whom that information came.
§ Mr. PARKERI am afraid I cannot say.
§ Mr. DEVLINIf you take away these rights you ought to be able to explain why to the House.