§ 65. Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Minister of Labour, in view of the fact that the cost-of-living index figure has increased by 8 per cent. since the present scales of unemployment allowance were determined by the Unemployment Assistance Board, whether he will make representations to the board to prepare new scales and regulations related to the increased cost of living?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Butler)There has been no material change in the position since my right hon. Friend gave a reply to similar questions on 8th April last, to which I would refer the hon. Member.
§ Mr. GriffithsIs the Minister not aware that there is the material difference that the cost of living is still increasing? Is it intended that the Unemployment Assistance Board shall review these scales and regulations at any time, or are we to understand that the scales have to stand where they are?
§ Mr. ButlerThe last part of the hon. Gentleman's question requires considerable consideration. In regard to the first part, what I stated in my answer stands.
§ Mr. E. J. WilliamsIs not the cost of living one of the factors that should be taken into consideration by public assistance committees in this regard?
§ Mr. ButlerThat raises a different matter from the original question, and I should require notice of it.
§ Mr. GriffithsMay we have the hon. Gentleman's assurance that the Unemployment Assistance Board will review the scales from time to time, in view of the.increase in the cost of living?
§ Mr. ButlerI have already informed the hon. Gentleman that that is a separate question of which I should require notice.
§ Mr. GriffithsI beg to give notice that, owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I will raise the matter at an early opportunity.