§ Mr. BRIANTasked the Minister of Labour at what date this year unemployment in the United Kingdom began to increase; at what date a Cabinet Committee was appointed to inquire into the question; and whether, at the present time, any schemes are in operation which have absorbed unemployed men or women?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAEmployment remained good till the end of August. It was not until the close of that month that any marked increase in the number unemployed began to take place, and even at the end of August the trade union percentage was 1.6 per cent., a figure much below the normal. A Committee was appointed by the Cabinet to consider the question of unemployment on August 13th, and its appointment was announced to the House on 16th August.
As regards the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement made to the House by the Prime Minister on the 19th October, which indicated the measures which the Government has in immediate prospect. Operations are actually in progress on 12 Arterial Road schemes. Moreover, the Ministry of Transport and the local authorities are co-operating in a large number of important road maintenance schemes, both in London and the provinces. In addition, measures have been taken by the Ministry of Health with a view to securing that road and sewer work in connection with housing schemes and various other public works shall be expedited.