§ 1. Mr. TINKERasked the Minister of Labour if he has considered the resolution carried by Leigh Town Council protesting against the Unemployment Bill now before the House of Commons; will he state how many other local authorities have made similar protests; and what action he proposes to take to meet them?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, my right hon. Friend has received a considerable number of representations or suggestions from local authorities for the amendment of the Unemployment Bill, a small number of which might be said to be protests 480 similar to that made by the Leigh Town Council. In reply to the third part of the question, the Government's policy on the points which have been the subject of protest has been or will be made clear in the Debates on the various stages of the Financial Resolution and the Bill.
§ Mr. TINKERIs the hon. Member aware of the growing feeling of indignation against the Bill now it is known what it will mean? In view of that fact, will he ask his right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour to consult with his Cabinet colleagues about the withdrawal of the Measure?
Viscountess ASTORIs it not true that all progressive Measures have been opposed violently in the country?