HC Deb 14 November 1929 vol 231 cc2189-90
11. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

asked the Minister of Labour for what periods in all John Tyler and Alfred Esqulant, who were recently sentenced to six months' hard labour at Old Street, have received unemployment pay?

Miss BONDFIELD

According to the records of the Department, Alfred Esqulant has not received any unemployment benefit since 1925, and John Tyler has not received unemployment benefit at any time.

Sir F. HALL

Will these men, after serving their term, receive unemploy- ment benefit without having to prove that they have been endeavouring to obtain honest work? [Interruption.] May I ask for an answer?

Miss BONDFIELD

If that be a serious question—[Interruption]—the terms for the receipt of unemployment benefit are perfectly clearly laid down in the Statute.

Mr. W. THORNE

Did the hon. and gallant Member make inquiries about these men before he put down the question?

Sir F. HALL

I think it is perfectly plain, if the hon. Member will look at the facts of the case.