HC Deb 09 March 1925 vol 181 cc939-40
56. Mr. JAMES HUDSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the case of a family named Jacques, of Manisforth Terrace, Hartlepool, where two boys of this family had been charged with loitering with intent to commit a felony outside a provision shop; that, before the magistrate, the police court missioner said that there were seven children and father and mother; that the father stated that he had had difficulty in respect to his unemployment benefit and had had nothing to give the children for a fortnight, but that he never lost any time when he could get work; that the police court missioner informed the bench that the father's statement was correct; whether he can state what the difficulties are in respect to the unemployment benefit; and if it is possible to alter the regulations so as to prevent a thoroughly deserving man from applying to the Poor Law?

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

I am informed that a William Jacques, of 62, Mansforth Terrace, West Hartlepool, recommenced claiming benefit on Monday, 16th February. The earliest date on which, under the ordinary procedure, any benefit could be paid on this claim was Thursday, 26th February,

Mr. GUINNESS

The answer involves figures, and, with my hon. Friend's permission, I will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following are the figures:

and on that date the full amount of eight days' benefit was paid. A further six days' benefit was paid on the 5th March. There would, therefore, appear to have been no delay to dealing with this ease.