HC Deb 06 July 1931 vol 254 cc1713-4
69. Mr. W. B. TAYLOR

asked the Minister of Labour whether unemployment grants are made available for schemes of highway development on rural highways where third-class roads are breaking through for want of material, and in order to provide work for unemployed farm workers?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Lawson)

Applications in such cases would be considered on their merits, and subject to the time-limits referred to in the answer given by my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Labour, in reply to the hon. Member for Walsall (Mr. McShane) on 25th Tune. I should point out, however, that grants are not avail- able for works which are in the nature of maintenance.

Mr. TAYLOR

Is my right hon. Friend aware that nearly 3,000 unemployed farm workers were kept out of the local rates for half of the past winter, and will he not be a little more sympathetic towards those particular schemes?

Mr. LAWSON

That is a matter for consideration in respect of schemes put forward by the parties concerned.

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