HC Deb 26 March 1936 vol 310 cc1386-7
16. Mr. BATEY

asked the Minister of Labour when the Government intend to implement their promise, made last year, to deal with the means test?

26. Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the many pledges given by Ministers and Members of Parliament during the General Election in connection with the household means test and the great difficulties still being experienced by the unemployed, he will take steps to procure from the Unemployment Assistance Board a report on the subject at the earliest possible date?

Mr. E. BROWN

I would refer to my reply on Tuesday last to the similar question put by the hon. Member for Gravesend (Mr. Albery).

Mr. BATEY

Is the Minister aware that at the General Election, in the Government manifesto, the Government made this promise, and how long are we to wait before it is carried out?

Mr. BROWN

We said "in the spring," and that is not finished yet.

Mr. MANDER

Will it be before Easter?

Mr. BROWN

I cannot say in regard to Easter, but it will be in the spring.

Mr. THORNE

Is the delay because the Cabinet are not united about the matter?

Mr. BROWN

No, Sir.

Mr. MANDER

Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall call attention to the matter on the Motion for the Adjournment.