§ 14. Mr. HURDasked the Minister of Labour what arrangements have been entered into by the Ministry preparatory to the creation of new or enlarged labour exchanges throughout the country; and whether, in view of the state of the national finances and the widespread objections of both employers and employed to this type of bureaucracy, he will take steps to curtail this branch of the administration?
§ Sir M. BARLOWArrangements are being made to improve the accommodation of the existing Employment Exchanges in order that the fullest possible facilities for their use by the public may be available and that the staff employed in them may no longer work under conditions prejudicial to their health and to the efficient performance of their duties. The question of the enlargement of existing Exchanges or the creation of new Exchanges will be largely determined by the additional responsibilities which may be entrusted to the Exchanges as a result of legislation, and in this connection the attention of the hon. Member is drawn to the provisions of the Unemployment In 1657 surance Bill now before the House. I am not aware of the widespread objections to which my hon. Friend refers. The Local Employment Committees, which are fully representative of employers and employed in each locality, have on many occasions made strong representations to the Department with regard to the un-suitability of the existing premises.
§ Mr. BILLINGAre we to understand that no further development in connection with these Exchanges will take place until further legislation has been propounded to the House?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI do not think it is possible to answer that question in the affirmative.