HC Deb 14 December 1933 vol 284 cc508-9
4. Mrs. SHAW

asked the Minister of Labour what facilities will be given by the Ministry of Labour for the removal of those workers and their families who may be transferred from Messrs. Stewart and Lloyd's works at Mossend to Corby, Northampton?

Sir H. BETTERTON

The normal facilities of this kind are limited to the advance of fares of workpeople finding employment at a distance and, in the case of those entitled to unemployment benefit, repayment of one-half of the advance in excess of 4s. out of the Un- employment Fund. There are also certain special facilities under the Industrial Transference Scheme applying to unemployed married men and their families transferred from depressed areas. I shall be prepared to consider how far these facilities can be made available in cases where I am satisfied that a charge on public funds can properly be authorised.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Are we to understand that Mossend is regarded as a distressed area or not, and has the right hon. Gentleman power to transfer workpeople if it is not?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I cannot answer that. I am aware that a great many people are moving from Mossend to Corby where these new works are. I am certain that a firm of this importance and high reputation will do their utmost to remove as many people as they can. With regard to those whom they are not proposing to remove, I will, in consultation with them, see whether we are justified in giving assistance for this purpose.

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

I imagine the right hon. Gentleman will not give a preference in this case which he will not give in every other case?

Sir H. BETTERTON

Certainly not. It is part of our policy where we can, and where we think we are justified to assist in. removing people from one area to another.

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