§ 44 and 45. Mr. WHITEasked the Minister of Labour (1) if he has issued any directions to public assistance committees with regard to the raising of the basic rates in assessing transitional payments as from 1st July next;
(2) what steps he proposes to take to ensure uniformity of action by public assistance committees in dealing with transitional payments in relation to the increase in standard unemployment benefit?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)A Circular, dated 24th May, of which I am sending a copy to the hon. Member, was issued to local authorities informing them of the proposed alteration of unemployment benefit rates and of the effect of such alteration upon their legal powers and duties in respect of transitional payments.
§ Mr. THORNEWould the Minister be good enough to supply all the Members of the House with a similar circular? I put a question the other day on the subject, and I would like to know the contents of the circular.
§ Mr. TINKERMay I support that same appeal?
§ Mr. HUDSONI will see if we can do it. If not, I will send both hon. Members a copy and put a couple of copies in the Library.
§ Mr. THORNEWill the hon. Gentleman have copies put in the Vote Office, and then we can get them for ourselves?
§ Mr. HUDSONI will see what can be done.