HC Deb 29 November 1922 vol 159 cc681-2
23. Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the Minister of Labour the numbers in the various branches of the building trade who were unemployed in October and the total amount of unemployment benefit paid to them?

Sir M. BARLOW

The number of unemployed building operatives on 23rd October, 1922, as shown by unemployment books lodged at Employment Exchanges, was 118,739. I am circulating particulars in the OFFICIAL REPORT. It is estimated that for the four pay-weeks falling within the month of October these persons received about £260,000 in benefit.

Mr. T. THOMSON

Would my right hon. Friend, in his capacity as Minister of Health, consult himself as to whether it would not be more profitable to spend that money on building houses rather than on paying men for doing nothing?

Sir M. BARLOW

As my hon. Friend knows, the matter is a very difficult one, but it is under consideration.

Following are the particulars promised:

Carpenters 11,785
Bricklayers 5,200
Masons 1,773
Slaters 471
Plasterers 1,564
Painters 18,840
Plumbers 3,584
Other skilled trades and labourers 75,522
Total 118,739