§ 91. Mr. E. BROWNasked the Minister of Pensions which hospitals have been closed during the four years ending 31st October, 1927; how many ex-service orderly staff who are ineligible for unemployment benefit have been discharged; whether it is proposed to close any more hospitals during the next financial year; and, if so, how many ex-service orderly staff will be discharged without any other assistance than that of the local guardians?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Lieut.-Colonel Stanley)The number of Ministry hospitals (including treatment and training centres) closed during the four years ended 31st October, 1927, was 19, and the number of ex-service orderlies ineligible for unemployment benefit thereby discharged was approximately 470. So far as can be foreseen at present, three hospitals will be affected by accommodation changes contemplated during the next financial year. The net total reduction of ex-service orderlies ineligible for unemployment benefit will probably not exceed 30.
§ Mr. BROWNHave there been any representations to the Ministry of Labour about the desirability of placing these men within the scope of the Unemployment Insurance Act?