§ 16. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the severe hardships suffered, especially in winter time, by large numbers of unemployed and their families in the Western Isles owing to the discontinuance of the unemployment benefit and allowances and the inadequate rates of public assistance; and whether he is taking any special steps with regard to the unemployment position in the Western Isles?
§ Mr. E. BrownI would refer the hon. Member to the replies I gave him on 3rd November and subsequent occasions. If he will let me have particulars of any specific cases which he has in mind, I shall be glad to have inquiry made.
§ Mr. MacMillanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is the general rule in some parts of the islands to cut off large numbers of people unless they can show that they have a good insurable record; and is not that impossible in view of the lack of work during the last 10 years?
§ Mr. BrownThe hon. Member's supplementary question shows how difficult it is to deal with this question at Question Time. Two or three issues may be involved. It may be an application of the Anomalies Act or it may be a question whether they are within the scope of the Act or not.
§ Mr. MacMillanIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that insurance officers are taking decisions which cause great hardship to these people without anyone having a say in the matter?
§ Mr. BrownI have repeatedly told the hon. Member that on questions of policy they are advised by the local advisory committee, and in this matter he should address his attention to those concerned in the Western Isles.