HC Deb 25 March 1937 vol 321 c3050
7. Mr. F. Anderson

asked the Minister of Labour whether the Unemployment Assistance Board's regulations provide for the provision of clogs and articles of clothing for the men to be re-engaged in the Whitehaven coal mines; and, if so, what will be the practice to be followed by the men concerned?

Mr. E. Brown

The Board inform me that there is power under Regulation 4 (3) to adjust an allowance so as to meet needs of an exceptional character. When application is made, therefore, to the Board's local officer, he is bound to consider, in accordance with the Board's general policy, any request for assistance in purchasing clothing of which the applicant may be in need and for which his resources, including the normal allowance, have not been adequate. I understand that in the Whitehaven area a special local fund is available for making provision of the kind to which the hon. Member refers.

Mr. Anderson

Would the word "clothing" include clogs, or would it exclude clogs; and will it be necessary for the people concerned to make individual applications for the supply of clothing?

Mr. Brown

I will make inquiries and let the hon. Member know.

Mr. G. Hardie

Will people who may be supplied with clothing in this way be required to pay back for it out of their wages?