HC Deb 09 April 1925 vol 182 cc2402-3
31. Mr. R. RICHARDSON

asked the Minister of Health whether, as alternative tasks to stone-pounding and oakum picking for casual paupers, he will recommend work on the land and in the garden, washing of garments, towels, and other materials provided by the guardians for the casual ward, scrubbing and cleansing and chopping wood?

Sir H. BARNSTON

The tasks suggested by the hon. Member for casual paupers are already in common use.

37. Mr. RICHARDSON

also asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that the number of provincial unions which, after the decision in Rex. v. Baddeley in 1906, sought for and obtained power to impose the task of stone-pounding upon casual paupers was 48, and that more than eight per cent. of them were Berkshire unions, he will take steps to stop this practice in this and other counties?

Sir H. BARNSTON

As the hon. Member has already been informed, my right hon. Friend will consider how far it is necessary or desirable to retain this particular task.