Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Labour the total number of insured persons who have been refused benefit by the, Middlesbrough Employment Exchange owing to the alteration in regulations made by Circular No. 8,213?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDUp to 16th March the number of persons who had been disallowed benefit at the Middlesbrough Employment Exchange under Circular 82/13 was 87.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Labour how many persons have been refused uncovenanted benefit as a result of the issue of the recent Circular by his Department; and what measures he is proposing to deal with these people?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDIn previous replies which I have given on this1342W subject I have stated that the number was approximately 11,000. The exact figure up to and including 23rd March is 10,884. With regard to the latter part of the question, I must refer the hon. and gallant Member to the Debate in the House on 9th March last, when a very full discussion took place.
§ Lieut.-Colonel GAULTasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that a considerable number of men were sent by the authorities at the Taunton Employment Exchange to the Derby Timber Haulage Company for employment; that they were informed at the Employment Exchange that they would have to deposit sums up to £5 as fidelity money and that about 50 men were so employed by the manager of the alleged company, and having worked for nearly two weeks the manager disappeared, with the result that the deposits are apparently lost and no wages forthcoming; and, under the circumstances, will he authorise the payment of the unemployment pay for the period in question as, although the men were technically employed, they will receive no pay and, in addition, will lose the amount they deposited in order to secure work?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI am having inquiry made, and will communicate the result to my hon. Friend as soon as possible.