HC Deb 30 June 1932 vol 267 cc1999-2000
28. Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKE

asked the Minister of Health if his attention has been drawn to a public statement by the chairman of the public assistance committee in Birmingham in which he explains the Order issued by the Ministry compelling men seeking relief to do navvying work without regard to their previous calling; and whether, in view of the fact that the Order when issued did not meet with the approval of the public assistance committee, he will consider the advisability of cancelling the regulation, which is causing much concern to those who are subject to its practice?

Sir H. YOUNG

My attention has not been drawn to the chairman's statement, which I assume refers to the Relief Regulation Order issued by my Department in March, 1930. That Order provides for setting to work, training or instructing able-bodied men in receipt of out-door relief. It does not specify the nature of the work, and allows considerable latitude to local authorities in making the necessary arrangements. I see no reason for withdrawing the Order.

Mr. CROOKE

Is the Minister aware that some of these men are physically unfit for the rough work that is given them; and, further, that some of them feel that the work is placed upon them as a punishment for crime, their only crime being that they are poor?

Sir H. YOUNG

As to the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, I have no information to that effect. The responsibility is, of course, entirely that of the local authority. As to the second part, I do not agree with the suggestion contained in my hon. Friend's supplementary question.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the Minister aware that, when highly skilled craftsmen are put on to this navvying work, it does them damage which cannot afterwards be so repaired as to preserve their adaptability for their ordinary calling?

Sir H. YOUNG

That no doubt would be a matter which should be considered by the local authority in determining the nature of the test or other work which they are going to apply, and I have no reason to suppose that that consideration is not present in their minds.

Mr. CROOKE

Is the Minister aware that the regulations governing this matter were issued by the Minister of Health in the late Socialist Government?