HC Deb 10 March 1926 vol 192 cc2270-1
30. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSON

asked the Minister of Labour how many applications for extended benefit have been made at the Middlesbrough Employment Exchange since the 1st October, 1925; the number of such claims that have been refused; the number that have been granted; and the number under consideration at the latest convenient date?

Mr. BETTERTON

During the period 13th October, 1925, to 8th February, 1926, 18,488 applications for extended benefit were considered by the Middlesbrough Local Employment Committee, of which 15,824 were recommended for allowance and 2,664 for disallowance. At 8th February there were 433 applications adjourned for further information, and 311 applications awaiting consideration by the Committee.

Mr. THOMSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the refusal of over 2,000 for extended benefit has imposed a transfer to the local rates, and will he reconsider the revision of the condition under which benefit is granted?

Mr. BETTERTON

No, Sir, that is really a matter for debate and not a supplementary question. Of course, I cannot accept the premise on which the hon. Gentleman bases his question.

Sir H. CROFT

May I ask, in view of the deplorable conditions in Middlesbrough, whether, in spite of the hostility of the hon. Member for West Middlesbrough (Mr. T. Thomson), the hon. Gentleman will not see that these great industries are safeguarded?

63. Mr. SCURR

asked the Minister of Labour how many applications for extended benefit have been made at the Stepney Employment Exchange since the 1st October, 1925; the number of such claims that have been refused; the number that have been granted; and the number still under consideration?

Mr. BETTERTON

During the period 13th October, 1925, to 8th February, 1926, the Local Employment Committee at Stepney has considered 6,172 applications for extended benefit, of which 3,611 were recommended for allowance and 2,561 for disallowance. At 8th February two applications stood adjourned awaiting further information, and 480 applications were awaiting consideration by the Committee.

Mr. SCURR

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that at the present moment the Stepney Board of Guardians are relieving 3,600 unemployed men?

Mr. BETTERTON

No, Sir, I was not aware of that.