§ 24. Mr. RENDALLasked the Minister of Labour if he can give any promise that he will draft and introduce a Bill bringing out-and home workers, especially in the boot trade, inside the ambit of insurance against unemployment; has he been urged to do this by the Boot and Shoe Operatives' Union; and, if he is unwilling to pledge himself to introduce a Bill on this subject, what remedy does he propose to save this large class of persons from poverty and starvation during periods of unemployment?
§ Sir M. BARLOWArrangements have been made to receive a deputation from the National Union of Boot and Shoe Operatives on this subject at an early date, and the representations made by this deputation will be carefully considered. Meanwhile, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to my Noble Friend the Member for South Nottingham on the 2nd March, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. RENDALLCan the hon. Gentleman say whether this change can be made by administration or must it be made by legislation?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI should like notice of that question. I am not prepared to say off-hand, but I think it would require legislation.