HC Deb 17 July 1930 vol 241 c1436
3. Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour if the Government are now in a position to offer terms to the Association of Midland Local Authorities which will enable them to carry through their plans for levelling pit mounds and thus provide immediate work for a considerable number of the unemployed for a number of years?

Miss BONDFIELD

The new conditions and terms of grant have been communicated to all local authorities, including those who constitute the Association referred to. I hope that these terms will enable the authorities concerned to carry out some, if not all, of their proposals.

Mr. MANDER

Is the right hon. Lady aware that all that these local authorities are asking is to be allowed to raise their share of the finance by a short-term loan, for they cannot possibly put it on the rates?

Miss BONDFIELD

That is another point.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir A. LAMBERT WARD

Is there any merit in levelling these pit mounds other than to provide work?

Miss BONDFIELD

Yes, the work gives valuable sites for housing.

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