HC Deb 09 July 1924 vol 175 cc2237-8
26. Mr. BAKER

asked the Minister of Labour whether, as a result of representations made to his Department, the cases of men attached to the Eastville Employment Exchange have been reconsidered for benefit by the Eastville Employment Exchange Rota Committee, and have been recommended for benefit; whether he is aware that in the case of many men who were recommended for benefit as long as a month ago no payments have been made; and whether. having regard to the urgent nature of the cases, he will issue immediate instructions authorising the payments which have been recommended by his local advisers?

Mr. SHAW

Certain cases at the Eastville were reviewed by the local committee during June and July. The recommendations of the committee had to be specially considered by the Department, and this led to a certain amount of unavoidable delay, but in the result all the recommendations for allowance of benefit were accepted, save in three cases. Payment has been made, except in two cases which were dealt with by the committee on 7th July, and four other cases in which the claimants have not attended for payment.

Mr. BAKER

Is it not a fact that that payment has only been made since this question was put on the Paper?

Mr. SHAW

That may be the case.

Sir F. HALL

Is it not often the case?

Mr. SHAW

I am not aware that it is.

Sir F. HALL

I will press the right hon. Gentleman.

Mr. SPEAKER

Mr. Foot Mitchell.