§ 68. Mr. HANNONasked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of workers in the coal-mining industry totally unemployed on the 31st January, 1925, and on the corresponding date of 1924: and the amount payable in respect of such unemployed in unemployment insurance benefit?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThe total number of coal miners registered as unemployed at Employment Exchanges in Great Britain at 26th January, 1925, was 100,061, compared with 58,289 at 28th January, 1924. These figures include persons claiming benefit who were on short time and not at work on the dates specified. Separate figures showing the amount of benefit paid in particular trades are not available, but assuming that these workpeople drew the same average amount per head as unemployed work-people generally, the present weekly 430 amount of unemployment benefit paid to them is estimated to be between £80,000 and £85,000.
§ Mr. HARDIEHas the right hon. Gentleman made inquiry as to whether it was necessary to close down these mines?
§ Mr. SPEAKERAnother Minister will have to answer that question.