HC Deb 09 February 1932 vol 261 c663
70. Mr. LUNN

asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of men and women who have been refused transitional benefit after examination by the public assistance committees?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)

Between 12th November, 1931, and 23rd January, 1932, determinations given by public assistance committees in Great Britain included the cases of 197,542 men and 77,995 women in which the needs of applicants were held not to justify transitional payments. The figures may include a certain number of renewals and revisions of determinations and the number of separate individuals concerned is not available.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Has the hon. Member any idea of how many of these people continue going to the Employment Exchanges?

Mr. HUDSON

No, Sir, but I should think the great majority.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the hon. Member endeavour to secure that figure?

Mr. HUDSON

I should like the question put down.

73. Mr. GORDON MACDONALD

asked the Minister of Labour the additional number of persons engaged throughout Lancashire by the public assistance committees in consequence of the administration of the means test to unemployed persons or transitional benefit; and the total weekly cost involved?

Mr. HUDSON

I am not at present in possession of complete details of this staff, and I regret, therefore, that I am unable to say what is the total weekly cost involved.

Mr. MACDONALD

Has the hon. Member consulted the local authorities?

Mr. HUDSON

These particulars are being sent in by the local authorities concerned, as my right hon. Friend said the other day?