HC Deb 14 July 1927 vol 208 cc2305-6
52. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has received representations from the Bristol and District Unemployment Committee begging him to expedite as much as possible the provision of adequate accommodation for the Bristol Employment Exchange, in order to minimise the hardship and inconvenience which is at present caused to the large number of persons unemployed and all others concerned; and what action he proposes to take?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Sir Arthur Steel-Maitland)

The need for improved Employment Exchange accommodation for Bristol is recognised. A site for a new building has been acquired and plans are in course of preparation.

Colonel WOODCOCK

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that queues of men have to stand outside this Exchange in the main thoroughfare at Bristol in all weathers?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

What we have done ought to reduce the inconvenience to a minimum in any case. As I have already said, the accommodation is not good, and we hope to improve it soon.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the demand for economy by his own supporters has kept this Employment Exchange from being built?