HC Deb 08 May 1930 vol 238 c1124
56. Mr. THURTLE

asked the Minister of Health, in accordance with the latest information in his possession, in how many areas stone-breaking, as distinct from quarrying, is being imposed as test work for unemployed men?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The new authorities generally have not yet submitted their arrangements for work, training and instruction under the Relief Regulation Order, 1930, and my latest information is derived from the special inquiry into test work. According to that information, in 14 unions stone-breaking, as distinct from quarry work, was being carried on, but in most of these cases it took the form of ordinary road work performed by arrangement with the local councils and generally under their supervision.

Mr. THURTLE

Has the right hon. Gentleman the power to prohibit such test work and, if so, in view of the strong feeling against it, will he exercise that power?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I would ask my hon. Friend to await the report on test work, which will be available in a few days.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is there anything dishonourable in stone-breaking?

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