HC Deb 23 June 1931 vol 254 cc209-10
65. Mr. P. OLIVER

(for Mr. Mander) asked the Minister of Labour if she will introduce legislation to deal with cases where workmen have been refused unemployment benefit owing to their refusal to accept employment at rates below the standard trade rate?

Mr. LAWSON

The Unemployment Insurance Acts already include safeguards for such cases in Section 5 (2) (ii) of the Unemployment Insurance Act of 1927, and Section 4 (2) of the Unemployment Insurance Act of 1930. Cases in which the loss of employment is by reason of a stoppage of work due to a trade dispute are the subject of special provisions.

Mr. McSHANE

Is my hon. Friend aware that the courts of referees are disallowing benefit to men for not working seven days a week, Sundays included, 82 hours a week, and how can it be said that there is ample protection when there is such a state of affairs as that?

Mr. LAWSON

No, I am not aware of that fact.

Mr. BROCKWAY

In view of the fact that a Bill is being introduced to deal with alleged abuses committed by the unemployed, is the Parliamentary Secretary prepared to urge the introduction of legislation to deal with the abuses from which the unemployed are suffering?