HC Deb 21 February 1935 vol 298 cc510-1
13. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether steps will be taken to ensure that the observance of a national holiday in May in connection with the Jubilee shall not prejudice the position of casual workers and others under the provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Acts or the regulations made there-under?

Mr. STANLEY

So far as I am aware there is no reason to think that the observance of the holiday will affect the payment of unemployment benefit to persons who would otherwise be entitled to receive it in respect of that day. If, however, there is any point in regard to which the hon. Member anticipates difficulty, I shall be glad if he will let me know, in order that I may have it examined.

Mr. LAWSON

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, may I ask him if he is aware that this holiday clause is going to be one' of the great difficulties? I have been wondering whether it would be possible to take counsel with the umpire on this question and to make a definite announcement?

Mr. WHITE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it will be decided that these two days will be a customary holiday?

Mr. STANLEY

I have no reason to think that this particular holiday will be treated as a recognised or customary holiday.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us how he can lay down the law? Is it not done by the authorities through the customary and proper channels?

Mr. STANLEY

I am careful not to lay down the law. I have no control over the umpire. All I can say is that I have no reason to think that it will be regarded as an ordinary holiday.

68. Colonel ROPNER

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is ware that the active participation of the Territorial Army in the various official ceremonies in connection with the Jubilee would stimulate recruiting; and whether all units of the Territorial Army will be ordered to supply contingents and, if so, upon what occasions?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Douglas Hacking)

As regards the Jubilee celebrations. I cannot at this stage do more than refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which I gave to my hon. and gallant Friends the Members for Keighley (Major Watt) and Partick (Lieut.-Colonel C. MacAndrew) on Tuesday last. The importance of stimulating recruiting is fully recognised.

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