HC Deb 27 October 1920 vol 133 c1725
35. Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether the men and women who will be out of work on and after 6th December are not to receive benefit unless they have been in work during each of the previous four weeks; and, if so, whether, in view of the prevalence of unemployment and the distress which will be caused, he can see his way to modifying this arrangement?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Persons who become insured for the first time under the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1920, will become entitled to benefit for eight weeks as soon as they have been in work and paid contributions in each of four weeks from 8th November. Those previously insured under the Unemployment Insurance Acts, 1911 to 1919, will in most cases have paid already the qualifying number of four contributions, and will consequently be in benefit at once. As the new Act is on a contributory basis, I cannot hold out any hope of any general modification of this requirement, which in fact is already very favourable to those newly entering into Insurance. As regards ex-service men, however, who stand in a special position, I am considering what arrangements it may be possible to make after 8th November, on which date the special extension of Donation now payable comes to an end.

Mr. THOMSON

How soon will the right hon. Gentleman be able to make an announcement with regard to the ex-service men and special arrangements?

Dr. MACNAMARA

It will have to be before this next week, obviously, and I am doing what I can to secure a decision being taken as early as possible.