HC Deb 27 November 1922 vol 159 cc274-5
38. Mr. FREDERICK ROBERTS

asked the Prime Minister whether it is proposed to accept the recommendations contained in the Report of the Select Committee on the Training and Employment of Disabled Ex-service Men?

Sir M. BARLOW

I have been asked to reply. The Government propose to proceed broadly on the lines recommended by the Select Committee, and I am inviting the Lord Mayors, Lord Provosts and Mayors to set up the King's Roll Committees in their areas forthwith. It has also been decided to appoint a King's Roll National Council, and I am glad to be able to announce that Field-Marshal Earl Haig has consented to be Chairman.

Mr. J. JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that shifting one man out of a job to put another into it does not touch the question of unemployment, as the new man is simply taking the job of his predecessor?

Sir M. BARLOW

I am not sure that that arises out of the question, but the general underlying considerations are present to my mind.

Mr. F. ROBERTS

Have any training establishments been closed down lately, and are the same arrangements still being carried on?

Sir M. BARLOW

I would like to have notice of that question, but there are abundant places vacant for training purposes in the factories which are now open.

49. Sir EDGAR CLARKE

asked the Prime Minister what immediate steps he proposes to take to ameliorate the position of the ex-service men during the forthcoming winter?

Sir M. BARLOW

I have been asked to reply. A full statement of the proposals of the Government for dealing with unemployment will be made at the appropriate time during the Debate on the Address; but meanwhile I can assure the hon. Member that in preparing these proposals the Government have kept constantly in mind the special claims of ex-service men.

Mr. CAIRNS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that ex-service men are lying in wash-houses and stables and are in receipt of only 15s. a week, though they have wives and families?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the original question.