HC Deb 27 February 1935 vol 298 cc1128-9
64. Mr. CAPORN

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the smallest number of persons registered for em ployment in the hosiery industry recorded as unemployed during any part of 1934, and the average monthly number so recorded during the said year?

Mr. HUDSON

Among insured persons aged 16–64 in the hosiery industry classification in Great Britain the smallest number recorded as unemployed at any of the monthly dates during 1934 for which statistics are available, was 9,754, at 26th November. The average monthly number recorded as unemployed during that year was 12,755. In both cases substantially more than half the total were only temporarily stopped.

65. Mr. CAPORN

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of persons registered for employment in the hosiery trade at the beginning of 1935 or the nearest available date, and at the corresponding period for 1932?

Mr. HUDSON

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to him on this subject on 20th February.

Mr. LYONS

Am I right in saying that the number unemployed in the hosiery trade is greater than for some years past, and, in view of the apprehension which must be caused to the Minister of Labour, will he make some representations for the better protection of the home market?

Mr. HUDSON

I would refer my hon. Friend to my previous answer.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is it not true that the wise men of all nations realise that the only way to get the unemployed to work is the lowering of tariffs in all countries?