HC Deb 25 July 1923 vol 167 cc438-9
32. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will have immediate inquiry made as to the action of the Audley Employment Exchange in making the gap in benefit now instead of at the end of the benefit year, because work may be available in harvesting, in view of the hardship imposed on people who did not expect the gap so early?

Sir M. BARLOW

Local employment committees are authorised to recommend the suspension of uncovenanted benefit in particular cases, whether in order to vary the period during which the Statutory "gap" will fall or for other reasons, I understand that the local committee has taken such action in a case of which the hen. and gallant Member has sent me particulars, and I am inquiring into this.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that similar action has been taken in a number of cases, and is it within the powers of the local committee to alter the gap for a whole category of workers, or only in individual cases?

Sir M. BARLOW

I should like to have notice of that question. Prima facie, it has to be dealt with by individual cases.