HC Deb 23 May 1940 vol 361 cc278-80
8. Mr. McGovern

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether he is taking steps to give a substantial increase in allowance to the unemployed, and at what date the increase will come into force?

Mr. Assheton

With regard to unemployment benefit, the hon. Member will be aware that rates of benefit are dependent on the resources of the Unemployment Fund. As regards Unemployment Assistance, my right hon. Friend is devoting all his energies to finding work for as many unemployed persons as possible.

Mr. McGovern

But that is not the question I asked. I asked whether the Min- ister is taking action substantially to increase the rates of benefit because of the fact that increased prices are going on all the time and the standard of existence of these people is being reduced accordingly; and has he discussed the matter with the Minister?

Mr. Assheton

I need hardly say that I should not have given this answer without consulting my right hon. Friend.

Mr. McGovern

Do I take it then, that the Minister does not intend to increase the rates of benefit?

9. Mr. T. Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether he is aware that increased wages received on account of the rise in the cost of living is being taken into account in households where an applicant for unemployment assistance resides, and that, in consequence, the assistance is proportionately reduced; and whether, in view of the circumstances of the present time, he will consider the modification of the present regulations?

Mr. Assheton

I would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to a Question on the same subject put by the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent (Mr. E. Smith) on 25th January.

Mr. Smith

Will the Minister keep in mind that here is a problem that is well worth looking into, in view of the fact that we are urging both men and women to do as much as ever they can in the various industries in which they are engaged?

Mr. George Griffiths

Will the Minister consider that these men are being asked to work overtime, and that if they work any overtime the fact is brought to the attention of the Board and a reduction is made in the unemployment assistance? This is a serious matter.

Mr. Assheton

I think I made it clear in the reply to the Question to which I referred the hon. Member that that is not in fact the full position. In the case of an increase of wages of the kind to which the hon. Member refers some advantage does accrue to the household under the present regulation.

Mr. Smith

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the Question I admit that it is reduced proportionately, and will he give the House an assurance that this matter will not be lost sight of?

Mr. Assheton

It is always under consideration.