§ 66. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour the number of persons unemployed; and whether the Government have any schemes in contemplation for the provision of useful work?
§ Mr. E. BrownAt 12th September, 1938, there were 1,798,618 unemployed persons, aged 14 and over, on the registers of Employment Exchanges in Great Britain. As regards the second part of the question, I have nothing to add to previous replies on this subject.
Mr. DavidsonWill the right hon. Gentleman try to obtain the figures taking also into account the figures of the unemployed now under unemployment assistance relief?
§ Mr. BrownThat is a matter between the health services and my own Department, but I should like to see the question in precise terms on the Order Paper, and then I will do my best to give what information I can.
Mr. DavidsonDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that these figures added to those of the registered unemployed are the only honest figures of unemployment in the country?
§ Mr. LawsonIs the Minister not aware that the situation is getting worse in many of the heavy industry areas, and that there are great numbers of men who have been out of work for many years? Cannot the Government do more in this matter?
§ Mr. BrownThe Government are doing a great deal. I cannot accept the hon. Member's statement that the situation is gradually getting worse. During the last two or three months there has been some improvement, although there have been some variations.