§ 11. Mr. Burkeasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a number of unemployed persons drawing unemployment assistance benefit have been refused the extra grants recently made on the ground that, with these grants, the amounts paid would be above their normal earnings; and whether he will take into consideration the increased cost of living, which has led to higher wage rates which these unemployed persons would be receiving in their usual occupations?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe Board assure me that it is their normal practice, in determining the wage to be taken in applying the wage-stop provision, to have regard to the wage which the applicant would for the time being be likely to earn if employed, and that their officers are fully aware of the necessity of taking into consideration alterations in wage rates.
§ Mr. BurkeCan the Minister explain how it is that a number of cases in Burnley have been refused the special allowance, if the old wage rates are not taken into account?
§ Mr. BrownI cannot do that, because that is not the question which was asked. If the hon. Member will put his question on the Paper I shall be very glad to answer the question.
§ Mr. BurkeIs it not obvious that the regulations were made when the cost of living was different and that they are out of date, now that the cost of living has gone up?
§ Mr. BrownI am informed that the normal practice is not what the hon. Gentleman is suggesting, but I will call the attention of the Board to the suggestions which he makes.