§ 3.55 p.m.
§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY OF THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (THE DUKE OF NORFOLK)My Lords, this Bill is introduced purely to tide us over a period of time when the amount of unemployment in the country is likely to alter during the transition from war to peace. The great war effort has meant that many changes will have to be made; many factories will have to be refitted and the machinery altered. It would be wrong not to suggest that certain temporary unemployment is likely to result, but this is not foreseen as being great. In fact, with the Government plans it is expected to remain small. We must be prepared, however, to see that those who have played their part in the war machine should, if through no fault of their own they are for a short time out of work, not go without adequate benefit. I understand that 8 per cent. is considered as the largest possible figure of unemployment. At present under the Unemployment Insurance Acts, 1935 to 1940, rates vary between those employed in agriculture and other employed persons, and the amount of contribution varies also. It is considered that the cost of living since 1940 has risen about it per cent., and this Bill aims to raise the benefits by 20 per cent. The Government consider that these benefits can be paid out of the existing contributions and that there will be no need to call on the reserve fund. I should make it quite clear that no increase in the contributions is intended. The Bill has passed through another place without amendment, and it will come into force by order of the Minister of Labour on a given day. I beg to move.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2ª.—(The Duke of Norfolk.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2ª, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House.