§ 16. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of National Insurance if he is aware that on 22nd October, 1951, there were 144,000 persons in receipt of standard or additional days' benefit with 35,000 in receipt of extended benefit under the Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and that on 18th February, 1952, the comparable figures were 250,000 and 36,000, respectively; and what action he proposes to take to increase the unemployment insurance benefits so that these people may not suffer undue financial hardship.
§ Mr. PeakeI would refer the hon. Member to the provisions of the Family Allowances and National Insurance Bill presented to this House on 22nd April.
§ Mr. LewisWhile appreciating that this Measure will bring about some amelioration, may I ask if the Minister is aware that since this Government have been in power there has been a rapid rise in the cost of living? Will he not try to do something further if only to offset the defects of the Budget on these poor unemployed people?
§ Mr. PeakeI can only inform the hon. Gentleman that, as I feel sure he is aware, for the first time since these unemployment benefit rates became operative in 1948, they are being increased by the present Government approximately to the extent of 25 per cent. on the existing rates.
§ Captain Richard PilkingtonIs my right hon. Friend aware that since this Government have been in office there has been a very steady rise in the value of the £?
§ Mr. LewisIs the Minister aware that if a man is unemployed and is not getting any money at all, the value of the £ does not affect him?