§ 7. Mr. Buchananasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the great 2039 hardship caused to unemployed persons on Unemployment Assistance Board allowances by the stopping of winter allowances and also that the cost of living is tending to rise; and whether he will take steps to have the allowances continued?
§ Mr. E. BrownNo, Sir, I am not aware of any grounds which would justify the recommencement of winter additions at the present time. As regards the second part of the question, I am not aware of any recent increase in the cost-of-living index figure.
§ Mr. BuchananIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that winter conditions still continue in many parts of the country, and will he not consider continuing the winter allowances and reconsider the whole question?
§ Mr. BrownNo, Sir. This was a new departure in the law, and I think the arrangements have been approved by this House and well received in the country.
§ Mr. T. SmithHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the remarks of the Food Council with regard to the cost of living?
§ Mr. SorensenCould we indicate our sympathy with the unemployed upon the cessation of their winter allowances by ordering that the fires in this House be also put out?