HC Deb 06 April 1939 vol 345 cc2964-5
10. Mr. Lawson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the acting president of the Miners Federation stated in evidence before a recent meeting of the Royal Commission on Compensation, that the County of Durham was paying large sums to maintain unemployed men who were proper subjects for the Unemployment Assistance Board; and whether he will investigate this matter with a view to relieving this authority of such financial burden?

Mr. E. Brown

I have heard that such a statement was made, but am not prepared to accept it. The Durham public assistance authority is well aware of its right to appeal against decisions of the Board's officers that the Unemployment Assistance Act does not apply to applicants for allowances.

Mr. Lawson

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to confer with public authorities on this matter in view of the large sums which are being paid to unemployed men in this way?

Mr. Brown

I received a large deputation on which, I think, the Durham authorities were represented, but it was a long time ago.

Mr. Lawson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is asserted that there are people who are unemployed and who are not seeking assistance. That is the general charge, but this is a particular case in which they are prepared to give the names of the people concerned. Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to investigate the matter?

Mr. Brown

Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a further question.