§ Mr. W. BAKERasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Mr. L. Thomas, of 12, Railway Terrace, Kings-land Road, St. Philips, Bristol, signed on during July, 1925. for service at sea, but 2020W owing to the serious illness of his wife and family he was unable to reach the ship until within half-an-hour of sailing; that another man was signed on in his place, and that, although one member of Mr. Thomas's family died two days later, he was deprived of unemployment benefit from 20th July until 8th September; that Mr. Thomas was compelled to appear before the court of referees three times during successive weeks despite; the fact that the court decided in his favour on each occasion; whether it has now been ascertained that the unnecessary suffering to which this man has been subjected was due to official errors and confusion; whether he will state what disciplinary notice he has taken of the mistakes made by his officials; and whether ho will give an assurance that a repetition of such errors will not occur?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDSo far as my inquiries have gone I have already communicated the facts to the hon. Member in my letter of 15th December, I will let him have the result of my further inquiries as soon as possible.