§ 46. Sir FRANK SANDERSONasked the Prime Minister whether the Government contemplates further schemes for works of public utility, to be administered by local authorities, to provide employment for unemployed persons and so obviate the necessity of paying away sums of public money in relief and for which there is no return?
§ The MINISTER of LABOUR (Sir Arthur Steel-Maitland)I have been asked to reply. The policy of the Government was communicated by circular to local authorities in December, 1925. It has not varied since. It is open to authorities in areas where unemployment is exceptional to apply for financial assistance in respect of works accelerated by at least five years. I will send my hon. Friend a copy of the circular referred to.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSSince there is only, approximately, one-third of the number of people employed on these relief schemes to-day compared with 12 months since, will not the right hon. Gentleman relax these Regulations to enable local authorities to put work in hand for the unemployed?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDNot as at present advised, but the matter is one for Debate, if anyone wishes to raise it on a suitable occasion.