§ Mr. R. YOUNGasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the railway companies are discharging young men from their service in locomotive sheds, etc., in Bury and other places; whether in such cases notice is given to the Ministry of Labour of such intended discharges; whether, seeing that railway companies do not contribute to unemployment insurance, there is any arrangement whereby those discharged can receive financial assistance; and, if not will he inquire the reason for these discharges?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI assume the hon. Member has in mind employés covered by Certificates of Exception issued under the Unemployment Insurance. Act, 1920, in respect of the permanent wages staff (other than shopmen) with 3 years' service or more, on the ground that it is the normal practice of the employers to retain the employed persons in their employment during good behaviour. In case of discharge no benefit or other financial assistance is payable to such employés under the Unemployment Insurance Acts (except where the period of exception has been very short). There is no requirement that notice should be given to me of the intended discharge of excepted employés. Where cases of discharge come to my notice, I take the matter up with a view to seeing whether the conditions for exception are still satisfied. I should be glad to receive particulars of any individual cases the hon. Member has in mind.