HC Deb 29 June 1927 vol 208 cc390-1
44. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that between 5,000 and 6,000 persons in the city of Bristol are in receipt of unemployment benefit each week and that 900 persons are signing weekly without the receipt of benefit; whether he is aware that for the week ending 25th May, 2,107 men, 2,125 women and 4,647 children, a total of 8,879 men, women and children were in receipt of relief from the guardians, the total cost for the week being £2,536 18s. 10d.; and whether, having regard to the position in the city of Bristol created by the long continued period of unemployment, he will consider additional relief schemes?

Mr. BETTERTON

I am aware that the number of persons in receipt of unemployment benefit and relief from the guardians is substantially as stated in the question. Schemes of work for the relief of persons unemployed are initiated by local authorities who are, I think, generally aware that schemes which satisfy the conditions for a grant from State funds should be submitted to the Unemployment Grants Committee.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it not the case that in consequence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer "pinching" £12,000,000 out of the Road Fund, local authorities are prevented from carrying out much useful work?