HC Deb 27 July 1925 vol 187 cc28-9
51. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the question of the unsuitability of the present Employment Exchange at Victoria Street, Bristol, was raised at the meeting of the main committee in September 1923; that as a result of care- ful investigations the Department was recommended to acquire the adjoining premises; that owing to the delay in reaching a decision these premises were acquired for other purposes; that the Department declined to receive a deputation early in 1924; and that after a most careful search for suitable accommodation the premises sub-committee met representatives of the Office of Works and the Ministry of Labour when the proposed new premises were inspected; and whether, seeing that the promise given at that time that a decision would be expedited has not been kept, he will inquire into the matter?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

I am aware that the present Exchange premises in Victoria Street are inadequate. The adjoining premises were found on examination to be unsuitable, and the hon. Member is therefore mistaken in thinking that the delay in reaching a decision affected the matter. It has been difficult to find suitable alternative accommodation, but, as the result of an intensive search, my right hon. Friend the First Commissioner of Works is now considering some alternative proposals. Heavy expenditure is, however, involved, and while I appreciate the interest of the local committee in the matter, it is obviously necessary to examine the proposals very carefully.

Colonel WOODCOCK

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the position of this office is in a most unsuitable place, as it exposes the unemployed to the view of the people passing through the main road of the city, and will he refer to the Report of the Estimates Committee on this very subject?

Mr. BETTERTON

As stated in the answer, I am quite aware that the present premises are inadequate and not very suitable, and I am also aware of the Report of the Estimates Committee on the subject.