HC Deb 24 February 1926 vol 192 cc507-8
42. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Minister of Labour how the figure for the live register compares with last year, having regard to the effect, if any, upon it of the last Unemployment Act and of any administrative action or regulations subsequent to that Act?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

The latest figure for the live register was that for 15th February, and amounted to 1,139,300 as compared with 1,239,796, which was the figure for 16th February, 1925. It is not possible to make a precise adjustment for the factors to which the hon. Member alludes, but as far as I can tell the reduction in the figures owing to these factors does not exceed 15,000 as a maximum, and probably is not more than 10,000, if as much.

Mr. T. SHAW

Can the Minister of Labour give the figures for the same date in 1924, when the conditions were comparable?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I will give the right hon. Gentleman those figures if he will put down a question.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the data on which he bases those figures?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I asked for an inquiry to assist me in reaching as accurate an estimate as the circumstances allow. The calculations are too lengthy to come within the scope of an ordinary answer to a question, but I shall be glad to circulate a memorandum on the subject to hon. Members, and also, if it is deemed desirable, I will put up a diagram in the Tea Room illustrating them.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Is it not a fact that in a reply to a question last December I was told that there were over 150,000 applicants for extended benefit, 100,000 of whom were rejected?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

No, that is not my recollection of the answer I gave, but if the hon. Gentleman will refer me to it I will look it up, and he can put down another question.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Seeing that the Minister has admitted—

Mr. SPEAKER

Order, order. We must get on.