HC Deb 21 March 1923 vol 161 c2540
32. Mr. BARKER

asked the Minister of Labour if the Nantyglo Employment Exchange is authorised to tell unemployed men in that area that they must go to Doncaster, 150 miles away, to look for work; and, if so, whether he will give instructions to the officials at this Employment Exchange to discontinue this practice?

Sir M. BARLOW

I am having local inquiry made as to the facts and will communicate the result to the hon. Member.

Mr. MARDY JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this practice is prevalent at many Exchanges and men are asked to go a very unreasonable distance to look for work?

Sir M. BARLOW

I am not aware of the practice.

Mr. HAYDAY

Has the right hon. Gentleman issued any such instruction, that men can be sent from one district to another in search of employment, or is it not rather sending them to fill vacancies?

Sir M. BARLOW

I am having the whole matter inquired into. I cannot give an answer on a specific point without notice.

Mr. MARDY JONES

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of supplying these unemployed men who are asked to go 50 or 80 miles for work with boots?