§ 15. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Minister of Labour why he has refused a request from the national unemployed workers' movement asking him to receive a deputation; and if he will reconsider his decision?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONIt did not appear to me that any useful purpose would be served by receiving this deputation. I am not prepared to reconsider the decision.
§ Mr. BUCHANANSeeing that this body has a considerable section of supporters, could not the Minister receive a deputation? Has it not been the custom of all past Ministers of Labour to see representative bodies and hear what they have to say on an important subject?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONIn this matter I am following exactly the policy of ray predecessor and of the Labour Government, and I am not prepared to recognise this organisation as entitled to speak for Labour.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs it the policy of the Government in all matters concerning the Labour Ministry to follow the example of the last Government?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONNo, Sir; only when I think they were right.
§ Mr. McGOVERNIn view of the fact that the position of the unemployed has worsened considerably, would the Minister not reconsider the matter and meet a body that certainly caters for a large section of the unemployed?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is repeating a question which has already been asked.
§ Mr. THORNECan the Minister state the object of this organisation having a discussion with him?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI think the hon. Member is probably as well aware as I am of the object.