HC Deb 23 November 1933 vol 283 c237
4. Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKE

asked the Minister of Labour by what authority the officials of the Ministry refuse to grant unemployment benefit to post-war soldiers after discharge, while granting it to other applicants who have been employed during similar periods by other employers?

Sir H. BETTERTON

Men discharged from the Forces arc credited with unemployment insurance contributions in accordance with Section 41 of the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1920, and I am not aware that benefit has been refused in any case where it was payable. If my hon. Friend has any particular case in mind, perhaps he will communicate with me.

Mr. HANNON

Will my right hon. Friend, instead of putting the onus on my hon. Friend, make inquiries himself as to whether the practice mentioned in the question is being observed?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I have no complaints whatever.

Mr. HANNON

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I can hardly inquire without any information on which to inquire. I shall be only too ready to inquire if I have anything to inquire about. I have no knowledge whatever on the subject.