§ Mr. DUNNICOasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that many of the employés in the kitchen and refreshment departments of the House of Commons are subjected to hardship by reason of the frequent breaks in the Parliamentary Session; and whether, in view of the fact that only a small number are allowed a retaining allowance and that the remainder are ineligible for unemployment relief, he is prepared to consider making a grant to the Kitchen Committee so as to enable maintenance 570W allowances to be made to all, particularly during the short and unexpected breaks in the Parliamentary Session?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSThe cash subsidy previously granted from the Exchequer to the Refreshment Department of this House was withdrawn on the 1st April, 1922. The circumstances to which the hon. Member refers were fully considered at that time, and I regret, therefore, that it is not possible for me to depart from the decision then taken. It appears to me that the conditions of service of the employés and any financial measures necessary in connection therewith, are a matter for the consideration of the Kitchen Committee.