§ Mr. SHORTasked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, whether he is aware that 19 Darlaston manufacturers have written to the Walsall Board of Guardians protesting against the increasing burden of rates due to making provision for the unemployed within the board's jurisdiction, and stating that, unless the present rate of expenditure is curtailed, operations will be suspended and works will be closed; and, if so, having regard to the increasing liabilities of local authorities, he will consider the desirabilty of giving increased financial assistance or make provision for unemployment a national charge?
§ Sir M. BARLOWMy right hon. Friend is aware that this is a Union in which it has been found necessary to relieve a large number of unemployed persons, though he has not been informed of the particular protest mentioned in the question. The suggestion made in the last part of the question is under the consideration of the Cabinet Committee, as I informed the House in the early hours of this morning.
§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, if he is aware that the West Ham Board of Guardians have paid out in relieving destitution arising out of unemployment, exclusive of effects of strikes, lock-outs, and trade disputes, over £1,400,000; that with the exception of £300,000 the money has been raised from the rates; that other industrial centres have overdrafts at the bankers amounting to about £3,000,000; and will the Government reconsider their attitude in this matter?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI am afraid I cannot at present add anything to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member in reply to the same question last Monday.