HC Deb 08 July 1930 vol 241 cc221-2
59. Mr. KIRKWOOD

asked the Minister of Labour if she is aware that the Singer Sewing Machine Works at Clydebank are to be closed from 17th July until 4th August; and whether the workers laid off will receive unemployment benefit during the period the works are closed?

Mr. LAWSON

I am not aware that the dates of closing have been definitely fixed. The question of eligibility for benefit can only be decided by the statutory authorities before whom all the facts will be laid.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

I am telling the hon. Member that the date is definitely fixed. It is up in the works. There is no doubt about it. Why should he say that he does not know the date when I am telling him that it is definitely fixed? It was his duty to make inquiries, and give me an answer.

Mr. LAWSON

I am much obliged to the hon. Member for the information, but officially we know nothing about it.

Mr. BUCHANAN

In view of the importance of the matter and the wide- spread concern in the West of Scotland regarding it, has the hon. Gentleman asked that a local inquiry should be made, and will he take steps to see that the authorities give a decision at an early date?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

This is a very serious matter. We have put down a definite question, and we are told that the Government have no definite information. [Interruption.]

Mr. SPEAKER

Mr. Kirkwood. Question No. 60.

60. Mr. KIRKWOOD

asked the Minister of Labour whether she is aware that many piece-workers at Singer's Sewing Machine Works at Clydebank are deprived of receiving unemployment benefit by being compelled to remain in the factory for 30 hours per week in the hope of further work being provided, which on many occasions does not materialise; that many of these people are married men with families who are earning less money in such circumstances than they would receive in unemployment benefit if totally unemployed; and what steps she proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. LAWSON

I have asked for a report on this matter and will communicate with my hon. Friend when I receive it.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

I must appeal to the House. We did not hear that reply.

Mr. LAWSON

I said that I have asked for a report in this matter and that I will communicate with my hon. Friend when I have received it.

Mr. MAXTON

If the hon. Gentleman finds, as a result of his inquiry, that there is a direct evasion of the Unemployment Insurance Act will he take steps—

Mr. SPEAKER

That appears to be a hypothetical question.