HC Deb 10 July 1930 vol 241 cc594-5
11. Mr. SIMMONS

asked the Minister of Labour if she will cause inquiry to be made as to the reason why a large crowd of women were kept waiting outside in the rain at the Beacon Hill Employment Exchange, Aston, on Monday, 23rd June, and arrange that the large vacant room on the premises shall be used as a shelter on future occasions?

Miss BONDFIELD

There was a sudden rainstorm lasting for about half an hour on the morning of the 23rd June. During its continuance the women already in the Exchange did not leave and so make room for those outside. A number of the latter were therefore caught in the rain, except so far as they could be accommodated in the men's waiting room, which I understand is the vacant room referred to by my hon. Friend. I should add that I am informed that the congestion in the women's department was mainly due to large numbers arriving in advance of their scheduled times and that the men's department did not meet with the same difficulty.

Mr. STRACHEY

Is the right hon. Lady aware that these premises are of a very temporary nature, and will she call the attention of the First Commissioner of Works to the desirability of providing a permanent building on this site for the purpose of an Unemployment Exchange?

Miss BONDFIELD

I am having these matters continually under review.

Mr. HANNON

May I ask whether this kind of question could not be arranged between the right hon. Lady and her friends without wasting Parliamentary time?

Mr. SIMMONS

On a point of Order. The suggestion has been made by the hon. Member that the question was arranged. I deny any such suggestion, and the hon. Member should withdraw it.

17. Mr. CHARLES BROWN

asked the Minister of Labour when the proposed new Employment Exchange at Sutton-in- Ashfield, Notts, is to be commenced; and if she is aware of the unsatisfactory character and situation of the present exchange, with queues standing in the main street of the town and dispersing near a very congested omnibus stopping place?

Miss BONDFIELD

I am aware of the unsatisfactory character and situation of the present Employment Exchange premises at Sutton-in-Ashfield. A plan of a new exchange has been approved, and the Office of Works will make arrangements for the building to be erected as soon as the necessary preliminary work has been completed.