§ 20. Mr. LUNNasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs the number of 15 unemployed in Newfoundland, the number receiving relief, and comparable figures for 1934 and 1935?
Mr. M. MacDONALDFigures of unemployed, as apart from those receiving relief, are not available. The total number of persons, including women and children, on relief in March (which is the latest month for which full figures are available) was 76,629 compared with 71,897 in March, 1935, and 85,215 in March, 1934. Naturally, unemployment is at its highest at this period of the year, and the figures may be expected to show a substantial decrease when the fishing season opens this month.
§ Mr. LUNNCan we expect anything to be done by the Commission of Government to reduce these figures, or is the Commission of Government powerless in the matter?
Mr. MacDONALDIf the hon. Gentleman will read the last report issued by the Commission, he will see that they are endeavouring to do a great deal in this matter.