§ Captain W. BENNasked the Minister of Labour how many discharged and demobilised sailors and soldiers are still unemployed; what steps the Government is taking to absorb them in some employment; and whether the unemployment alloyance will continue to be payable until they secure work?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAOn 16th April, 1920, the latest date for which figures are available, the number of unemployed ex-service men claiming Out-of-Work Donation was 217,000. The Employment Exchanges, in conjunction with the Local ployment Committees, are making continuous efforts to find employment for ex-service men. On the recommendation of the Committee for Re-employment of Ex-service Men, consisting of representatives of employers, trade unions, ex-service men's organisations and the Ministry of Labour, the Local Employment Committees are being asked to make an intensive effort in the next few weeks to secure the re-employment of ex-service men to the fullest possible extent. As regards disabled men in particular, the National Scheme is being pressed forward and the number of names on the Roll continues steadily to increase. As regards the last part of the question, under present arrangements the period for payment of Out-of-Work Donation has been extended to 31st July next in cases where it would otherwise have expired earlier.
1444W