HC Deb 26 October 1932 vol 269 cc975-6
45. Mr. BATEY

asked the Prime Minister if he is now in a position to state what efforts will be made by the Govern- ment to provide work for the unemployed during the winter?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)

I would refer the hon. Member to what I said to him on Monday last in reply to questions on this subject, to which at present I have nothing to add.

Mr. BATEY

Are we to conclude that the Government have no intention of providing work for the unemployed?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, quite the opposite. If my hon. Friend will repeat his question, perhaps on this day week, or will allow me to tell him when I am ready, I shall be very glad to answer him.

Mr. THORNE

Will the Prime Minister consult some of his colleagues, to see if the Government cannot extend their present methods and give some relief to local authorities who are very anxious to do a lot of work, if the Government will give them permission?

The PRIME MINISTER

That will all be under review.

Sir P. HARRIS

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise the great urgency of this matter, as we are now getting very near to mid-winter?