HC Deb 11 June 1931 vol 253 cc1180-1
27. Mr. PERKINS

asked the Minister of Labour the number of unemployed persons in the carpet industry in this country as at the latest available date?

Miss BONDFIELD

At 18th May, 1931, there were 5,403 insured persons, in the carpet industry classification, recorded as unemployed in Great Britain.

Mr. PERKINS

Can the right hon. Lady say whether any special steps have been taken by the Government in order to relieve the distress in this industry?

Miss BONDFIELD

In the same sense that we meet distress in other districts.

Mr. LESLIE BOYCE

Is the Minister aware that, if the carpets which are imported from abroad were made in this country, considerable employment would be found here.