42. Mr. SANDEMAN ALLENasked the Minister of Labour what is the approximate increase in the insured population since this period last year; and what is the approximate decrease in unemployment, after making allowance for the probable effects of any change in legislation or administration?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThe increase in the numbers of insured workpeople in Great Britain between February, 1925, and February, 1926, is provisionally estimated at about 150,000. The total number of persons recorded as unemployed on 22nd February, 1926, was approximately 100,000 less than the corresponding figure at 23rd February, 1925, after making the allowance referred to in the last part of the question.
Mr. ALLENWould the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it is possible to publish figures of that kind at certain periods, so as to avoid misunderstanding?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI promised to issue a memorandum which explains the matter.
§ Mr. T. SHAWWhen the right hon. Gentleman issues this memorandum, will he make a definite statement as to the annual growth in the number of people working?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDYes, I will endeavour to do that, too—the number of insured persons.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us exactly how many people who are out of work were not registered at Employment Exchanges?