HC Deb 10 December 1928 vol 223 cc1698-9
52. Mr. KELLY

asked the Minister of Labour the number of local authorities which have prepared schemes and presented them to Government Departments in response to the Circular of 9th November, 1928, on works for the relief of unemployment and the transfer of labour from depressed areas?

Mr. BETTERTON

Nineteen local authorities have submitted 26 schemes of work for the approval of the Unemployment Grants Committee under the new terms of grant. In addition a number of authorities have made preliminary inquiry regarding schemes they have under consideration.

Mr. KELLY

Have any of these schemes been put into operation?

Mr. BETTERTON

I should like notice of that question, but, in view of the fact that the Circular has only been issued about one month, I should think it was very improbable.

Mr. PALING

Does that mean that every local authority which sends in a scheme in accordance with the Circular will be granted the necessary money?

Mr. BETTERTON

That is a matter for the Unemployment Grants Committee.

Mr. PALING

Does that mean that, although the Circular has been sent out, the number of schemes granted will be a very small proportion under the Unemployment Grants Committee?

Mr. BETTERTON

That I cannot say. It is much too early to say what will be the result.

Mr. PALING

Is sufficient money available for the schemes which have already been approved?

Mr. BETTERTON

Yes. There is no question that in regard to any scheme which has been recommended by the Unemployment Grants Committee the necessary money will be forthcoming.

Mr. TAYLOR

Can the Parliamentary Secretary say how many men have already been provided with work under these schemes?

Mr. BETTERTON

No, Sir. Not without notice.