HC Deb 10 July 1922 vol 156 cc817-8
27. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Prime Minister if he is now in a position to state whether the Government intends introducing legislation with a view of deleting the in-and-out Clauses of the Unemployed Workmen's Act, in accordance with the promise made to the deputation of the various boards of guardians that met him on Tuesday, 20th June; and if he will take action in the matter?

29. Mr. CLYNES

asked the Prime Minister whether consideration has been given to the representations made to him by the recent deputation from local authorities with respect to the burdens being thrown upon them in consequence of the present volume of unemployment, and with the recent further burden thrown upon them by reason of the stoppage of unemployment benefit for intervals of five weeks; and whether he can now make a statement on the matter?

The PRIME MINISTER

Very careful consideration has been given to this matter, and in view of the weighty representations made by the Poor Law authorities, the Government have come to the conclusion that the intervals which, under the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1922, must elapse between successive periods of uncovenanted unemployment benefit should be reduced between now and the end of October. These intervals cannot be abolished altogether, but it is proposed to reduce them to one week, in place of the present five weeks. The necessary Bill for this purpose will be introduced immediately by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.

Mr. THORNE

Will the legislation be introduced at the very earliest possible opportunity, in view of the circumstances?

The PRIME MINISTER

Oh, yes; it must be introduced immediately.

Mr. CLYNES

With reference to the word "now" in the right hon. Gentleman's reply, is it intended to make the Act, when passed, retrospective to this date?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, I do not think we could do that.

Sir W. JOYNSON-H1CKS

Could the right hon. Gentleman give any idea of what this will cost?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think my hon. Friend had better wait until he sees the Bill. There will be no charge.