§ Sir C. HANSONasked the Minister of Labour whether the hours during which the Employment Exchanges open in rural areas, namely, from 9 to 12 and 2 to 4, can be extended in order to meet the convenience of the rural population?
§ Sir M. BARLOWThe offices of the Department in rural areas are generally under the charge of part-time officers who are under agreement with the Department to keep them open during specified hours, usually 10 to 12 and 2 to 4 (on Saturdays 10 to 12 only). So far as I am aware, these hours are reasonably adequate and any extension would probably lead to additional expense. If, however, there are any cases in which good ground for an extension of hours can be shown, I shall be glad to consider them.