§ 2. Mr. Westasked the Minister of National Insurance when he proposes to 4 announce his intentions regarding extended benefits under the National Insurance (Unemployment Benefit) (Transitional) Regulations, 1948, which will expire on 4th July next.
§ Mr. PeakeI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the National Insurance (Extension of Unemployment Benefit) Regulations made under Section 62 of the National Insurance Act, 1946. This is a temporary provision which lapses on 4th July next and I have no power to continue the Regulations beyond that date. I have, however, submitted to the National Insurance Advisory Committee draft Regulations under Section 12 of the Act, to provide additional periods of insurance benefit depending on the number of contributions paid and the unemployment benefit previously drawn. Copies of the draft Regulations are available in the Library.