HC Deb 30 January 1929 vol 224 cc930-2
24. Mr. WELLOCK

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that at no time during the last two years have less than 200,000 miners been wholly or temporarily unemployed; and if he can give an estimate of the number of miners who are unable to fulfil the 30 stamps qualification or will be unable on 19th April?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I am not able to make such an estimate. Although it is true that the number on the registers, except at one date, has not fallen below 200,000, this total includes those temporarily stopped, and the balance is largely made up of different individuals at different dates.

Mr. WELLOCK

How is the right hon. Gentleman going to decide the general point if he does not form an estimate?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I have already stated that I am making inquiries.

Mr. WELLOCK

Is it not necessary to get an estimate? Is the right hon. Gentleman trying to get an estimate in a typical case like that of the miners?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I have 6aid that I am making inquiries into the whole question, but, whether it will be possible to classify the information according to particular industries, I cannot say.

Mr. PALING

Are we to assume that if the number of unemployed colliers proves to be very large, some amelioration will be given to them?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

The hon. Member must not make any assumption before the results are obtained.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is the right hon. Member aware that there is almost universal approval in the country for a continuance of the present transition arrangement, and can he not make a statement quickly on the matter in order to dispel the apprehensions which prevail?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I believe there is apprehension, but the apprehension is largely exaggerated, and I would ask hon. Members, as they doubtless would be willing, to help me by dispelling the exaggeration.

40. Mr. BATEY

asked the Minister of Labour an estimate of the number of miners in Durham County whose unemployment benefit will cease in April, 1929, as a result of the 30 stamps qualification?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I am not yet in possession of information which would enable me to make the estimate referred to.

Mr. BATEY

Are we to understand that the right hon. Gentleman is seeking the information?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Yes.

Mr. BATEY

And you will let us have it?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Yes, but I cannot tell the hon. Member when I shall be able to obtain it. At the present moment I can give only a rough guess as to the inclusive number, and I hesitate to give it to the hon. Member because he may rely upon it.

Mr. PALING

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this information has been asked for for months now? Can he tell us when he is likely to get it?