HC Deb 18 November 1937 vol 329 cc547-8
5. Mr. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour the total number of registered unemployed in Scotland for the years ended March, 1930, and 1937, respectively?

Mr. E. Brown

The numbers of unemployed persons, aged 14 and over, on the registers of employment exchanges in Scotland were 218,251 at 24th March, 1930, and 269,351 at 15th March, 1937.

Mr. Davidson

Is the Minister satisfied with these figures in view of the fact that this Government have been in office practically all that time?

Mr. Brown

Of course I am not satisfied with these figures, but when the hon. Member asked another question, namely, what the figure was—[Interruption.] I was asked about my satisfaction, and I am giving an answer, as I always try to do. If the hon. Member will look at 1931, he will find the figure was 344,838 after a year of Labour Government.

Mr. Davidson

If I ask another question in regard to the increase in Poor Law relief in Scotland shall I get an adequate reply?

Mr. Brown

Certainly you will. You always get an adequate reply from me.