HC Deb 25 June 1931 vol 254 cc595-6
Mr. McSHANE

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether the Unemployment Grants Committee are authorised to accept applications for schemes of work for next winter which are submitted after 30th June?

Miss BONDFIELD

Local authorities were notified in March last that the Committee were authorised to entertain applications submitted before 30th June, provided that the work could be started on the schemes not later than 31st October. I do not think that any general postponement of these dates is either necessary or desirable. I am, however, informing the Committee that they may in exceptional circumstances entertain applications made after 30th June in respect of work to begin before 31st December, provided that good reason is shown why earlier application could not be made.

Mr. McSHANE

Is the Minister aware that neither my own local authority nor neighbouring authorities heard of this circular at the time, and, if on inquiry it is found that such circular was not sent to them, will the time limit be extended proportionately?

Miss BONDFIELD

I find it difficult to understand why they did not get that circular, because the usual method of circularising local authorities was adopted, but certainly that would be one reason which would weigh with the others for taking the course I have indicated in my answer.

Mr. MILLS

In view of the probable duration of the existing state of unemployment, will the Minister be prepared to re-issue this memorandum and to extend the date by one month?

Miss BONDFIELD

I will consider that course.

Major MCKENZIE WOOD

Does the right hon. Lady consider that three months was sufficient notice to give?

Miss BONDFIELD

To make application for a scheme to be considered?—certainly.