HC Deb 01 August 1922 vol 157 c1254
49. Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the Prime Minister whether he will refer to the Cabinet Committee on Unemployment the further consideration of the possibility of arriving at a formula whereby special financial assistance may be given to those industrial areas where the percentage of unemployment is much above the average for the rest of the country?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir A. Mond)

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question on Tuesday, 35th July, to which I have nothing to add.

Mr. THOMSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that since that time the Prime Minister has announced the appointment of a new Cabinet Committee to explore this question? Will that Committee further consider the case of the necessitous areas, and will any report be made before the House meets again, or anything done?

Sir A. MOND

I think the hon. Gentleman is rather mistaken about the objects of the Cabinet Committee.

Mr. THOMSON

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that unless something be done during the next three months, and assistance given, many of these industrial areas will be absolutely bankrupt?

Sir A. MOND

I do not think that is the case.