HC Deb 05 March 1936 vol 309 cc1531-2
1. Mr. DAY

asked the Minister of Labour when it is proposed to rebuild the Walworth Road (Borough) Employment Exchange;and whether he can give particulars?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Ernest Brown)

Active search is being made for a suitable site, and a new building will be erected as soon as such a site is found.

Mr. DAY

Would the Minister consider erecting a screen or awning outside the present exchange, so that men do not have to wait in the rain?

Mr. BROWN

I will look into the point.

6. Mr. PARKER

asked the Minister of Labour when the temporary Employment Exchange in Barking is to be replaced by a more permanent building which will provide adequate accommodation for the staff and enable the claims of the unemployed to be dealt with in less discomfort than at present?

Mr. BROWN

I cannot give a date, but Barking is scheduled as an urgent case in the Employment Exchange rehousing programme.

Mr. PARKER

Is the Minister aware that there is only one room available for use as a cloak-room and mess-room and for meetings of the court of referees and the women's committee; and will he take action at an early date?

Mr. BROWN

That is understood.

Mr. MAXTON

Is the Minister aware that his colleague, the First Commissioner of Works, complained very bitterly about the dilatoriness of his Department in regard to the building of new Exchanges, which has prevented him as Commissioner of Works from getting on with this work?

Mr. BROWN

I think that the hon. Member has given a romantic interpretation of what my right hon. Friend said.

Mr. MAXTON

He said it here the other day.

11. Mr. WAKEFIELD

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will arrange for greater facilities at the Employment Exchanges in order that those in employment, seeking to better themselves in their occupation, may be accorded interviews outside their normal hours of employment?

Mr. BROWN

I will give attention to my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. WAKEFIELD

Will the right hon. Gentleman see me a bout some examples?

Mr. BROWN

I shall be glad to see my bon. Friend at any time.