HC Deb 17 February 1926 vol 191 c1913
32. Mr. GRIFFITHS

asked the Minister of. Labour whether he is aware that nearly 600 of the unemployed at Cwmbran have to walk to Pontnewydd to sign the register and draw unemployment pay, and that this entails a walk to Pontnewydd and back of three miles, often in inclement weather; and whether he can see his way to open a branch office at Cwmbran, or fix up some room temporarily, to enable these men to sign the register?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I understand that Cwmbran is about one mile distant by level main road from Pontnewydd. I do not think the circumstances justify the extra expense involved by opening a new office.

Mr. GRIFFITHS

Is the Minister aware that it is three miles back and fore, and that these people must have clothes and boots in order to do the journey, especially in this wretched weather, and will he reconsider his decision with a view of opening something temporarily?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I always try to consider the circumstances in each case, as to the number of men and women that have to walk a distance, and also the cost. It is after weighing together the cost and discomfort that I have to come to conclusions.