HC Deb 26 February 1929 vol 225 cc1762-3
44. Mr. MARDY JONES

asked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, whether he is aware that an unemployed miner, Mr. Charles Reed, of 35, Collwyn Street, Coed Ely, Llantrisant, was recently employed by the Forestry Commissioners for a period of nine months; that during the whole of that period his employers did not make any contributions to the Unemployment Insurance Fund for this man or deduct any contributions out of his wages, with the result that this man has ever since been unable to qualify for unemployment benefits, having failed to procure other work since he ceased to be required by the Forestry Commissioners; and what are the reasons for this course, and does it apply in all like cases for the period unemployed workers are found temporary employment by his Department?

Sir G. COURTHOPE

Mr. Charles Reed was formerly employed by the Forestry Commissioners and no contributions to the Unemployment Insurance Fund were made during the period of such employment, the reason being that the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1920, excludes from unemployment insurance persons employed in agriculture, including horticulture and forestry. I, however, refer to the answer to a question by the hon. Member for Elland (Mr. W. Robinson) which was given on the 12th instant by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour.

Mr. JONES

In view of the fact that this man was employed by the Forestry Commissioners for a continuous period of nine months, why is it that some arrangement was not made? If the law is against it, why do you not amend it? Are you aware of the fact that this man who was in the employ of your Department for nine months was unable to qualify afterwards for unemployment benefit, having failed to procure other work, and that he was unable to get poor relief or unemployment relief, or anything else.

Sir G. COURTHOPE

I am not aware of that fact.

Mr. JONES

If I bring the facts before the hon. and gallant Gentleman, will he assist me to get this man some employment?