§ 25. Mr. W. B. TAYLORasked the Minister of Labour what steps, if any, are under consideration to provide some form of unemployment insurance for farm workers?
§ Miss BONDFIELDWhile the Government have not departed from their declared policy in this matter, my hon. Friend will be aware that the main scheme of unemployment insurance is now under review by a Royal Commission. The consideration of schemes for the inclusion of any other classes of workers, at present excluded, must wait for the recommendations of the Commission with regard to the main scheme. In these circumstances, and owing to the pressure on Parliamentary time, I fear it is not possible to contemplate legislation at present.
§ Mr. TAYLORHaving regard to the growing number of unemployed on the farms, may I urge my right hon. Friend to speed up this inquiry?
§ Miss BONDFIELDI will do my best.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORECan the right hon. Lady give us any indication as to when the Royal Commission is likely to report?
§ Miss BONDFIELDI am afraid I cannot.