§ Mr. Markhamasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Local Unemployment Index is now extensively used in universities and colleges and by other students; and whether, in view of the changed demand, this publication may now be treated as a Government publication on normal sale and made available to Members of Parliament on the usual green demand form; and if he will arrange for an annual summary of these unemployment figures?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe Local Unemployment Index was instituted in order to meet a demand for the supply of information of this kind for business purposes, and is issued at a price estimated to cover the cost of production. The great majority of the subscribers are business establishments and I regret that I cannot see my way to making any alteration in the terms of issue. The preparation of an annual summary would involve a substantial increase in cost, and I have no evidence that this would be likely to be covered by increased subscriptions.