§ 13. Mr. COVEasked the Minister of Labour the number of individuals directly employed since October, 1931, on schemes of employment initiated by the Government?
§ 15. Mr. A. BEVANasked the Minister of Labour the number of persons at pre- 2113 sent directly engaged on employment schemes sanctioned by the Government and the cost involved?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONThe average number of persons directly employed on the main classes of State-assisted schemes for the relief of unemployment over the period October, 1931, to January, 1933, was about 72,000. The number directly employed at the end of January, 1933, was 39,113. The total value of the schemes in operation at the latter date is not readily available, but in any case the hon. Member will appreciate that there would be no direct connection between this figure and the number of men employed at a particular date.
§ Sir P. HARRISDo these figures indicate that the Government policy has resulted in about 30,000 fewer being employed?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONNo, Sir, I do not for a moment admit that; and it may well be that, if the former policy were still being continued, further men would be thrown out of work.
§ 18. Dr. JOHN WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Labour the amount expended on works receiving Government grants in the Wales division for each of the last five years; and the number of people who have been given direct employment on these operations?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI am making inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Member as early as possible.