§ Mr. SHEPHERDasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the following facts concerning a short-time worker registered at the Darlington Employment Exchange: total days employed during four weeks ending 19th March, 1927, 15; daily earnings, 8s.; total earnings for period, £6; average weekly earnings (less rent at 5s.) £1 5s.; number in family, five (the youngest a newly-born baby); income per head per week, 5s.; decision of rota committee when this short-time worker appealed for benefit, not expedient in the public interest because applicant is a short-time worker; whether he is aware that this is only one of many similar cases; and whether such cases fall under the categories of hardship or exceptional hardship, as laid down in paragraph 9 of his Circular L.E.C. 82/17?
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§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI assume that the hon. Member has in mind the case of Mr. W. Foster. This case has recently been reviewed by the Local Employment Committee, who have recommended the grant of benefit, and I am prepared to accept this recommendation.