HC Deb 22 March 1927 vol 204 cc187-8
46. Mr. WRIGHT

asked the Prime Minister if any arrangements have yet been made for the transfer of unemployed miners to districts where employment is available?

Mr. BETTERTON

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend has communicated to the associations representing employers and workers in the coal mining industry proposals regarding the recruitment of workers in the industry, and is awaiting their replies.

Mr. PALING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the biggest difficulty is the lack of housing accommodation in the districts to which it is intended to send these new men, and is he aware that the result of the Government blocking the subsidy in those particular districts is that they are now building fewer houses than they otherwise would be doing; and in view of the special circumstances of this neighbourhood, will he give the matter further consideration?

Mr. BETTERTON

No doubt all these matters will be considered by the associations which are now considering them. The result of their deliberations and conclusions will be included in the reply which we hope soon to obtain.

Mr. BATEY

Is it proposed to give financial assistance to the miners to enable them to remove from one district to another?

Mr. BETTERTON

I cannot say anything more until we get the replies, and it would not be proper for me to do so until we get the views of the associations whom we have consulted.

Mr. BATEY

When may we expect the replies?

Mr. BETTERTON

The circulars went out on Saturday last. and we hope we may get the replies in the near future without any avoidable delay. That, of course, rests with those to whom we have addressed inquiries.