46. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether the Government has had time to consider the recent representations made on behalf of 61 necessitous areas, covering a population of over 12,000,000 persons, for further assistance on account of the abnormal distress due to unemployment in their districts: and, if not, will it be possible to do so at an 1597 early date in order that the assistance available may be known when compiling their estimates of local expenditure for the new financial year?
§ Mr. A. GREENWOODThis matter has been receiving very careful consideration, and my right hon. Friend hopes that an announcement will be made shortly.
Mr. THOMSONCan the Parliamentary Secretary say more definitely what he means by "shortly," as this matter has been before successive Departments for over three years?
§ Mr. GREENWOODAs early as possible.