§ Major ROPNERasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that, owing to the closing down of Trimdon Grange Colliery, the miners have to walk six miles to Wingate Employment Exchange three times a week; and whether, in view of the number of men concerned, he will arrange for an Exchange to be opened in Trimdon Grange itself?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThe question of providing additional local office facilities, owing to the closing down of Trimdon Grange Colliery, had already received my attention. Arrangements have been made to open a temporary office at Trimdon Grange as soon as suitable premises can be obtained.
§ Mr. GILLETTasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that great inconvenience is being caused to the unemployed women and juveniles in Finsbury by reason of having to go to the present Exchange in Pentonville Road; what is the amount of rent and rates paid for these premises; and what would be the estimated cost of providing premises at which the work of the two Exchanges in Finsbury could be merged?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDThe need for providing better accommodation in this case has been recognised for some time. The matter has been by no means free from difficulty, but a scheme of the kind suggested by the hon. Member is now under consideration and will be pressed forward as rapidly as possible. I do not think it would be desirable to publish the figures of cost for which the hon. Member asks.