HC Deb 22 April 1936 vol 311 cc150-1
43. Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is now able to give the date of the introduction of the new unemployment assistance regulations?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given yesterday by my right hon. Friend to the hon. Member for Salford South (Mr. Stourton) of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. MANDER

Can the hon. and gallant Member be a little more specific? Will they be introduced before Whitsuntide?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I have given the hon. Member an answer, but if he will read the answer to which I have referred he will get further information.

Mr. SHINWELL

Will the Minister of Labour make his Department cease trifling with the House and give a definite answer to the question?

Mr. CHURCHILL

What is the point of this prolonged delay in acquainting the House and the public with this very important matter?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

The matter is being considered.

Mr. SHINWELL

Is the hon. and gallant Member aware that the matter has been under active consideration for upwards of 12 months and yet there is no definite reply?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I am quite aware of that and I have taken a small part in the consideration of this question myself.

Mr. THORNE

Is the delay due to the fact that there is a split in the Cabinet on the matter?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I am not in the Cabinet.