§ 47. Mr. MANDERasked the Prime Minister whether a communication has yet been received from the International Labour Office recommending that the committee which the bureau of the world monetary and economic conference decided to set up to study the question of public works and other means of alleviating unemployment should be appointed and convened as early as possible; and what action he proposes to take?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI understand that the Governing body of the International Labour Office passed a resolution in this sense during October. My hon. Friend will be aware that work is being continued in certain directions, but many of the subjects reveal a close interdependence and we are awaiting suitable conditions for a general resumption of work. I do not feel that meantime this particular subject can be pursued advantageously apart from the general programme.
§ Mr. MANDERAm I to understand that the Government do intend at the appropriate moment to take the initiative in regard to getting this Committee together?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI had a little difficulty in answering my hon. Friend's question as to whether it was addressed to me as Prime Minister and Leader of 532 the House or as President of the International Conference. I can assure him that in the latter capacity I am watching every opportunity of setting things going.