HC Deb 07 April 1937 vol 322 c184
20. Mr. H. G. Williams

asked the Minister of Labour the surplus of the Unemployment Fund on 31st March, 1937?

Mr. E. Brown

The financial condition of the Unemployment Fund at the end of last year was dealt with in the recent report of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee. On 31st March, 1937, the Unemployment Fund had a total balance of about 43,700,000, but this is not properly described as a surplus.

Mr. Williams

Is the interest which is received on this surplus greater or less than the interest paid on the debt?

Mr. Brown

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.

Mr. Maxton

How much of the 43,000,000 can be described as surplus?

Mr. R. Robinson

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider using some of this surplus for improving conditions?

Mr. Brown

We took steps about a year ago, as the hon. Member knows.