§ 50. Mr. JOHNSTONasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that at the beginning of December last Unemploy- 426 ment Benefit claims made by persons who had been abroad within a certain period were suspended, and that fresh regulations were promised for dealing with such cases; whether he is aware that no fresh or amending regulations have yet been announced; and, seeing that some SO to 100 persons in the Dundee district are in consequence suffering privation, will he issue such regulations forthwith?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDIt has been decided that persons who go abroad, otherwise than on a visit, and subsequently return to this country, cannot qualify immediately for extended benefit, but must first Show over a reasonable period, which for practical purposes may be taken as three months, that they satisfy the statutory conditions. Those whose credit of contributions entitle them to standard benefit are not subject to this requirement.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONCan we have a copy of these Regulations placed in the Library?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI am not sure whether there is a copy in the Library, but, if not, I will see that the hon. Member is fully informed about it.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURWill it mean that the cases which are still awaiting the right hon. Gentleman's decision will be informed direct, owing to the anxiety of those concerned?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDIf any hon. Member will bring me particulars of cases on that point, I will see what can be done, and let them have the information as quickly as possible.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURWhat I ask is that those who have been waiting a decision should be informed directly.