§ 58. Mr. LANSBURYasked the Minister of Labour the terms and conditions under which he proposes to take over the Hollesley Bay labour colony from the Central Unemployed Body, London, and what arrangements he proposes to make for dealing with unemployed London men suitable and willing to undergo training?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)The proposal made to the Central (Unemployed) Body was that my Department, should take over the Hollesley Bay Colony as from 1st January, 1929, for use as an overseas training centre. The offer included the payment of a sum of money to enable the Central Unemployed Body to meet certain of its obligations and a substantial preference for London men in the allocation of training places.
§ Mr. LANSBURYWill not the hon. Gentleman's Department take some steps to consult the authorities connected with this colony, in order to overcome the small difficulties that have arisen, and, if necessary, to get a special meeting of the Body, so that the transfer may take place, as everybody wants it to take place?
§ Mr. BETTERTONThe Central (Unemployed) Body have at the moment deferred consideration of the matter, but I will certainly represent to my right hon. Friend the view expressed by the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. LANSBURYThe only point is that it will be postponed for three months unless some action is taken by the hon. Gentleman's Department.
§ Mr. BETTERTONI will represent that point of view to my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. MARCHDoes not one of the difficulties arise because the substantial preference to London men is not sufficient? What is a substantial amount?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI have a letter here which I will send to the hon. Gentleman, which sets out exactly what the position is. It is the letter written by my Department to the Ministry of Health, but I will put to my right hon. Friend the view expressed by the hon. Gentleman for Bow and Bromley (Mr. Lansbury).