HC Deb 18 February 1937 vol 320 c1336
13. Mr. Paling

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the large amount of unemployment in the Hoyland area, any steps are being taken to provide other means of employment than at present exist?

Mr. E. Brown

I am unable to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member on 17th December.

Mr. Paling

Has the right hon. Gentleman made any inquiries in this case? Is he aware that there is a pool of unemployment in this district which does not decrease? The pits have stopped, and unless some new industry is brought in there is likely to be a constant percentage of unemployment of about 40 per cent.

Mr. Brown

In my answer to the hon. Member I gave a full description of the situation from the exchange point of view.

Mr. Paling

But I am asking another question—whether anything is being done to provide work for these people? The last answer did not indicate anything of that kind.

Mr. Brown

I told the hon. Member that this matter was under the consideration of the Government.

Mr. Paling

I am asking whether anything is being done. May I have a reply?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member has had two answers already.