§ 25. Mr. DUNCAN GRAHAMasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that considerable dissatisfaction at 355 present exists amongst workmen in Lanarkshire at the manner in which claimants for out-of-work benefit are treated by the chairman, of the Mother-well Court of Referees; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made into the whole matter in the district affected?
§ Sir R. HORNENo, Sir. I have no reason to suppose that Mr. Thomson, chairman of the Motherwell Court of Referees, performs his duties otherwise than impartially and efficiently.
§ Mr. GRAHAMIs there not a case for inquiry?
§ Sir R. HORNEI am constantly in touch with the local officers, and I do not think there is any need for any special inquiry.
§ 55. Lieut. - Colonel Sir SAMUEL HOAREasked the Prime Minister whether it is intended to continue the present system of unemployment donation; and, if not, in what way it is proposed to modify it?
§ Sir R. HORNEI have been asked to reply to this question. The proposals of the Government on this matter will, I hope, be laid before the House next week.
§ Sir S. HOAREDo I understand that the House will then have an opportunity of debating this question, in fulfilment of the pledge given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer?
§ Sir R. HORNEI think my hon. Friend had better wait until he hears the statement. Undoubtedly any pledge given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer will be fulfilled.
§ Sir S. HOAREBut how is the House to express its opinion on the proposals?
§ Sir R. HORNEI think after my hon. Friend has heard the statement he can raise the question. I repeat that any pledge given by my right hon. Friend will be fulfilled.
§ Sir F. BANBURYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that only about ten days ago, in response to a question I put, I got an assurance that when any proposal was made with regard to the unemployment dole there should be a full debate in the House?
§ Sir R. HORNEUndoubtedly before any proposals are carried out any assurance given will be fulfilled.