§ 20. Mr. MARDY JONESasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the unsatisfactory 1714 nature of the Employment Exchange premises at Pontypridd; that the existing staff is endeavouring to carry on in a skating rink which is quite unsuitable for the purpose; and when the authorities are proposing to provide proper accommodation?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDYes, Sir. It has not so far been found possible to obtain a suitable permanent building or a site in Pontypridd on which to build. The temporary premises are being adapted and improved with a view to use until permanent accommodation can be secured.
§ Mr. JONESIn view of the fact that thousands of miners are permanently unemployed in this area, does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that it is urgent that permanent provision should be made?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThe best is being done in the circumstances.
§ 25. Mr. LOOKERasked the Minister of Labour is he is aware that persons claiming unemployment benefit who reside at Laindon, in Essex, are obliged to go to Stanford-le-Hope, some four miles distant, both to report and to claim benefit, thus involving a return journey of eight to 10 miles twice a week, which considerably interferes with their opportunities of looking for work; and will he take steps to provide some alternative arrangement whereby this double journey will be avoided?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDMy hon. Friend has written to me on this question, and I hope to send him an early reply.
§ 31. Mr. JOHNasked the Minister of Labour if his attention has been called to the delay in securing proper premises for the Employment Exchange at Treorchy; and, seeing that the authorities have promised new premises for the last year, when it is proposed to move the staff from the existing unsatisfactory premises?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDA building is now being adapted, and will, I hope, be ready for occupation early in the new year.