§ 22. Mr. LANSBURYasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that 2,309 ex-service men, together with 6,585 women and children dependent upon them, making a total of 8,894 persons, 272 have been obliged to accept Poor Law relief from the Poplar guardians; that most of the men are able-bodied and willing to work, but no work is available; and what steps he proposes to take to secure the removal of these men and their dependants from the care of the Poor Law?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI am not aware of these figures. As the hon. Member is aware, the Unemployment Insurance Scheme provides a large measure of assistance for unemployed persons in the insured trades. No further provision is contemplated.
§ Mr. LANSBURYMay I ask the hon. Gentleman if he thinks it an honourable thing that that large number of men who fought in the War should now be compelled to go to the Poor Law in order to Live—8,000, with their dependants?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is a matter for debate.