HC Deb 02 March 1927 vol 203 cc361-2
26. Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the Minister of Labour the number of unemployed receiving standard benefit and the number receiving extended benefit at the present time, and the corresponding figures for a year ago?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Statistics giving the numbers of persons receiving standard benefit and extended benefit respectively are not regularly compiled. A special inquiry made in March, 1926, showed that at that date 54 per cent. of the claims on which unemployment benefit was payable, were authorised for standard benefit and 46 per cent. for extended benefit. No further inquiry on this subject has since been made.

Mr. HARDIE

Does the right hon. Gentleman include in the figures those cases where a man may have 30 stamps and may have been in work for 24 months, and yet may be denied benefit?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I am not quite certain what the hon. Member means. Standard benefit would be given in those cases in which the benefit paid had been covered by the contributions already made.

Mr. HARDIE

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there are cases where no benefit has been paid, although over 30 stamps are shown? I got such a case this morning where a man has been cut off from the Exchange.

Sir A. STEELMAITLAND

If the hon. Member will give me particulars of any case of that kind, I will consider it, and communicate with him.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Is it not the case that a man may have 38 stamps but if there are not 12 continuous weeks, he may get no benefit? Is not that the regulation?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

If the hon. Member puts down a question of this kind on the Paper, I will consider it.

Mr. CONNOLLY

I would like to ask now if that is not the case under the regulations? I can furnish at least one instance where 38 stamps have been shown and benefit has been disallowed.

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question.