§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEasked the Minister of Labour what sum was advanced by way of loans to facilitate the transference of workpeople in the financial year 1929–30; what amount was repaid; and what amount is outstanding at date?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThe sum advanced during the financial year 1929–30 by way of loans to facilitate transference in Great Britain was £43,149. Repayments in respect of that sum and of other advances outstanding at the beginning of the year totalled £37,491. The amount of all balances outstanding at the end of the year was £12,343.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEasked the Minister of Labour whether she is aware of the hardship endured by some members of the Newcastle branch of the Amalgamated Engineering Union through being sent to Devonport to work under an assurance of a job lasting six weeks or more, whereas it only lasted between four or five weeks, and the members had to pay 28s. to get there and 52s. 6d. to get back; and, in the circumstances, will she agree that fares both ways should be allowed?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThe job to which the workmen in question travelled was expected to last about five weeks. The men were selected in co-operation with the local secretary of the trade union, and were fully informed of the conditions and length of the job. Under the Labour Exchange Act, 1909, I have power to make advances by way of loan towards the travelling expenses of workpeople travelling to employment which has been found for them through an Employment Exchange. In certain circumstances, the loan may be reduced by a grant from the Unemployment Fund, but apart from this I have no power to pay either forward or return fares.