HC Deb 05 March 1924 vol 170 cc1368-9
60. Mr. G. WHITE

asked the Minister of Labour if fresh Regulations have been issued under the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1923, governing the payment of uncovenanted benefit to single men; and, if so, what steps should be taken by those concerned to bring themselves within the scope of these Regulations?

Mr. SHAW

Revised instructions as to the grant of uncovenanted benefit to young single men were issued on the 14th February and took effect at once. Persons affected should renew their claims at their local Employment Exchange.

Mr. WHITE

Have any steps been taken to acquaint these people with the change in the Regulations?

Mr. SHAW

There was, I think, a very full description in the Press of the country as to what had taken place. I do not know that any extra-special steps have been taken to give information in individual cases, but I do not know of any case of hardship arising through lack of information.

Lord EUSTACE PERCY

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the effect of these instructions is to withdraw from the employment committees the right of selection?

Mr. SHAW

No. The effect of these instructions is not to withdraw from the employment committees any rights at all, except the right to say that certain people were not entitled to benefit, to which the Government hold those people were entitled. All other considerations that were remitted to the employment committees are still remitted.

Mr. HAYDAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether a copy of these instructions is available for Members?

Mr. SHAW

I will agree to send a copy of the instructions, or a copy of the decision, to Members of the House who desire it.

Forward to