HC Deb 19 November 1928 vol 222 cc1380-1
83. Major SALMON

asked the Minister of Labour the estimated number of insured persons in employment in October of this year and in October, 1924?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

As the reply involves a number of figures, I will, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

not add to the grievous overcrowding which exists in the places to which they have gone?

Mr. BETTERTON

There is no reason to anticipate any such result.

Mr. MARCH

Does the hon. Gentleman know whether there is any juvenile unemployment in London?

Mr. BETTERTON

Undoubtedly there is a certain amount, but that does not in the least mean that the boys who are being transferred will take the places of others who would otherwise have got employment.

Mr. MONTAGUE

Does that answer suggest or mean that special jobs have been created for these lads? Where have they come from? Out of the sky?

Mr. BETTERTON

No, Sir. We have been successful in finding in London jobs for 195 boys from distressed areas, who would not otherwise have got jobs.

Mr. BECKETT

Can the hon. Gentleman explain why these jobs have not been produced before for the youths of London?

Mr. BETTERTON

Because, by a special effort, we have been able in many cases to get jobs for these boys which otherwise would not have been given to them.

Mr. BECKETT

Why should not jobs be found for boys already out of work in London?

Mr. KELLY

Will the same staff that was engaged for finding these places for boys in distressed areas continue in operation, so that the London boys may have the benefit of their services?

Mr. BETTERTON

I should like notice of that question.