§ 7. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the number of persons unemployed is 1,828,103; that many of those persons have been out of work for long periods; and whether, in view of the failure of existing schemes to absorb the unemployed, the Government have any further proposals to make?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the remainder of the question, I have nothing to add to my previous replies on this subject and to my statements in recent Debates.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes not the right hon. Gentleman take a serious view of the present situation when so many persons are out of work, particularly in view of the fact that there is plenty of work to be found for them if the Government had a real policy?
§ Mr. BrownI am glad to hear of the hon. Member's faith in the powers of the Government. I have expressed my view as to the seriousness of the position on many occasions.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that my faith in the powers of the Government is being steadily weakened?