HC Deb 30 July 1923 vol 167 cc1027-8
70. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Minister of Labour if he can give any reason why he sent out instructions both to the Hull and Grimsby Employment Exchanges that all transport workers who were in receipt of unemployment benefit up to the time of the dispute are now disqualified, and have been for the past few weeks, from obtaining further benefit; and if he will take action in the matter?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

Benefit was disallowed at Hull and Grimsby by the chief insurance officer, who held that dock workers at those ports were disqualified for benefit on and after 2nd July, during the continuance of the stoppage due to the dispute. The dock workers and their association had the usual right of appeal to the Court of Referees and the Umpire, and at Hull there were appeals to the Court of Referees, which upheld the insurance officer's decision.

Mr. THORNE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that other than dock workers have had their unemployment pay stopped; and can he tell the House what is the definition of a "transport worker"?

Mr. BETTERTON

The hon. Member knows that the action of the chief insurance officer is in pursuance of a statutory duty under the Act; it is open to appeal, and with that statutory right the Ministry of Labour has no right to interfere.

Mr. THORNE

You are driving the men to rebellion.