HC Deb 10 May 1932 vol 265 cc1714-5
42. Mr. PIKE

asked the Minister of Labour if it is proposed to initiate any scheme by which unemployed miners, totalling over 200,000, can be absorbed into productive industry?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Sir Henry Betterton)

It is only by a revival of trade that the unemployed can be absorbed into productive industry, and the policy of the Government is directed towards this end.

Mr. BATEY

Is the Minister aware that the policy of the Government is creating the present position in the colliery districts?

Sir H. BETTERTON

No. If it was not for the policy of the Government, the position would be infinitely worse.

Mr. BATEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has been an increase of 63,000 miners unemployed, because of the policy of the Government?

Sir H. BETTERTON

That is not because of the policy of the Government. I am giving the exact figures in answer to another question.

Sir P. HARRIS

Have not more people been thrown out of work by quotas than have been put into work by the Import Duties?

43. Mr. JENNINGS

asked the Minister of Labour the number of miners unemployed in County Durham at the 31st December, 1931, and the number unemployed at the latest date available?

Sir H. BETTERTON

At 21st December, 1931, there were 41,022 insured persons in the coal mining industry classification recorded as unemployed in the county of Durham. The corresponding figure at 25th April, 1932, was 53,610.

Mr. BATEY

Has the Minister no explanation to give as to those figures being due to the policy of the Government?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I should think, as I have said before, that the policy of the Government has prevented a much larger increase.

Mr. LAWSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the industrial and commercial interests all over the North hold the Government's policy responsible for this situation? In view of this increase, are not the Government going to give special consideration to the question?

Sir H. BETTERTON

In regard to what the hon. Member says as to the views in the North, I can only say that I do not agree with him.