§ 8. Mr. Joelasked the Minister of Labour what progress has been made with the evolution of an improved scheme for providing building trade operatives with unemployment pay during bad weather when work is not possible?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe National Joint Council for the Building Industry in England and Wales recently submitted for my consideration, under Section 72 (2) (c) of the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1935, a scheme for insuring insured persons in the building industry against unemployment due to inclement weather. Notice of the receipt of this scheme was given in the London Gazette on 2nd December and in the daily and trade Press on the nearest subsequent date, and observations were invited from persons affected, who were able to obtain copies of the scheme from the Department on request. Numerous observations have been received, which I am now considering in order that I may arrive at a decision as to whether the introduction of the proposed scheme is practicable and expedient. To assist me in arriving at a decision on this point I hope shortly to arrange for an informal inquiry to be held. I should add that it may be necessary to extend the provisions of Section 72 of the 1935 Act before the scheme submitted could be brought into operation.
§ Mr. ManderAs these negotiations have been going on for a long time, can the Minister say when he hopes to get a result from them?