45. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether the Government have now considered the representations recently made on behalf of local authorities where unemployment is above the average for larger financial grants to enable them to carry out works of public utility by unemployed labour which, owing to their already heavy rates, they are unable to finance without further State assistance?
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Mr. Clynes)The representations are receiving the careful consideration of the Government, and it is hoped to announce a decision shortly.
Mr. THOMSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the continued delay means that a large number of men are continuing to draw unemployment pay, instead of having useful work which is available for them, and will he expedite a decision?
§ Mr. CLYNESI think the answer I have given is a reply to that question.