§ 35. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Agriculture how many agricultural labourers were unemployed on 1st February, 1929; and what steps, if any, have been taken to find employment for such men?
Mr. GUINNESSNo statistics are available of the number of agricultural workers unemployed. Instances have been reported to me but they are few in number and do not warrant special steps to provide temporary employment. If the hon. Member is aware of any cases of particular hardship I will have inquiry made as to whether any useful local action can be suggested.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that unemployment among agricultural workers is becoming more and more acute, and, in view of the fact that these men are outside the Unemployment Insurance Schemes, does he not think that some regard should be taken of the position and that some assistance should be given?
Mr. GUINNESSI have for several weeks past, through the officials of the Ministry and other agencies, made special inquiry into this matter, and the result does not hear out the statement of the hon. Member.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Member not aware that in certain parts of Yorkshire where agricultural workers have been dismissed workers from other industries are being imported making the position of the agricultural workers more and more acute every week?
§ Sir HENRY CAUTLEYCan the right hon. Gentleman inform the House where agricultural labourers are unemployed?
Mr. GUINNESSIn Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, and the East Riding of Yorkshire there are a few agricultural workers out of employment, but I understand that it is not very much more than takes place in most years.