HC Deb 04 November 1937 vol 328 cc1089-90
23. Mr. Donner

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that the approximate contribution income of the agricultural account of the Unemployment Fund up to 30th October, 1937, was £2,340,000 and the expenditure only £660,000, including the cost of administration, he will consider immediate measures designed to reduce the contributions of agricultural employers and employed persons?

Mr. E. Brown

This is a matter on which I must await the report of the Unemployment Insurance Statutory Committee, which, in accordance with Statute, will be made before the end of next February.

Mr. Donner

May I understand from that reply that the matter will be reconsidered sympathetically at the end of the first year, with a view to mitigating the incidence of this burden on those engaged in the agricultural industry?

Mr. Brown

That is a matter for the committee.

Mr. Paling

Will the Minister advise the Statutory Committee to consider the surplus from another angle, that of giving increased benefits to agricultural labourers?

Mr. Brown

The committee will hear any evidence that the parties concerned desire to tender.

Mr. G. Griffiths

Will the Minister reconsider that Clause, for which the hon. Member voted, which allows only 30s. a week to a family of three? Birth control.