HC Deb 25 June 1924 vol 175 cc414-5
23. Mr. W. MARTIN

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that many labour employment committees are demanding the production of documentary evidence that work is being sought; that this is proving a great hardship in many cases, as owing to the number calling at certain works the foremen refuse to grant such evidence; and will he consider placing the onus upon the local committee to satisfy themselves on the accuracy of the statements made by direct application to the employers said to have been visited?

Mr. SHAW

I am aware that in certain cases documentary evidence is called for, but this is only done where the applicant's oral statement has failed to satisfy the committee and they have no other alternative but to recommend the refusal of benefit. The terms of the Unemployment Insurance Acts place the burden of proof on the applicant, and I am unable to transfer it by administrative action to the committee.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some committees, even when documentary evidence is tendered, refuse to accept it

Mr. SHAW

I am aware that many statements are made, but when definite proof is given I am prepared to investigate a case on any occasion. I simply cannot investigate an ex parte statement without any proof being given.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I did, in one case, submit a document to him; and is he aware that the reply I got was that the matter was one for the committee to decide?

Mr. AYLES

Does the Minister circulate his answers to questions of this sort to the various, unemployment committees of the country; and will this be so circulated?

Mr. SHAW

I do not think that the answer to this question need to be circulated to the employment committees of the country. As these committees cannot speak for themselves, may I say that so far as I know the workers' representatives on these committees do their duty; any implication that they do not ought not to be made until something like proof is given.

Mr. MILLS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that men who for 30 years had been working at. Woolwich Arsenal, skilled mechanics, were discharged because they were approaching 60, and having had no work whatever since 1919, are now deemed to be out of an insurable occupation simply because they have been unable to get a job at their own trade; should not guidance be given in cases of that sort?

Mr. SPEAKER

I think that question had better be put down.