§ Mr. Martinasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that victims of air raids have often to stand for long periods in queues outside unemployment assistance boards and public assistance committee offices and Employment Exchanges and, further, are frequently sent from one office to another, sometimes repeatedly, before their claims are adjudicated upon or even investigated; and whether, in conjunction with the Minister of Health, he will take steps to bring these practices to an end?
§ Mr. E. BevinMy Department and the Assistance Board are in constant consultation with the Ministry of Health on this matter. It is sometimes impossible to prevent the attendance of considerable numbers simultaneously at particular points but every practical step is being taken to avoid delays. The Board's officers are instructed to deal with urgent applications at the office at which they are first made. If there are cases where applicants are sent from one office to another hon. Members will assist me by sending me particulars immediately.