§ 24. Mr. Stephenasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that unemployed men from Bressay are being compelled to accept work on a scheme in the Orkney Islands under the threat that their unemployment benefit will be disallowed if they refuse such employment; that men, who after working on this scheme have returned to Ashby-de-la-Zouch complain of working ankle deep in mud without suitable boots being provided; that sleeping quarters were overcrowded contrary to regulations; and whether he will make inquiry into these complaints, the conditions ruling at the scheme, and into the hardship imposed upon people in Shetland in having to go to such schemes in Caithness and the Orkney Islands, where, owing to weather conditions in midwinter, it is difficult to earn a reasonable weekly wage?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am having inquiries made and will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as possible.