§ 19. Mr. G. BARKERasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the dissatisfaction that exists among the unemployed of Nantyglo and Blaina at the way they are dealt with at the Employment Exchange; that on Wednesdays and Fridays they have to stand in queues from one to two hours in the street, sometimes in pouring rain, waiting for their unemployment pay; that there is only one Exchange for Nantyglo and Blaina to deal with 3,000 men; and that this means that aged and destitute men have to make a journey of three miles to and from the Exchange twice every week; and whether, with a view to remedying these grievances, he will take steps to have the unemployed living at Nantyglo paid in that area so as to avoid the danger to health arising out of the present arrangements?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI understand that there has been some congestion at the Blaina sub-office in the past, but this has now been remedied. My information is that none of these men live further than two miles away from the nearest office, and attendance is required only twice a week. In these circumstances I should not be justified in incurring the expense of another office.
§ Mr. BARKERWhen was the congestion removed? I have very recent information as to its existence.
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI cannot say how recently the change has been made, but it has been remedied.