§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the increasing difficulty caused to cotton workers by his decision to close the Chadderton Employment Exchange; and whether he will now reconsider the matter.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodAlthough the numbers now unemployed are greater than when I decided to close the Chadderton Employment Exchange, I do not consider that the re-opening of that office would resolve the present difficulties. I hope, however, with the co-operation of employers to use certain modifications of normal procedure which will obviate difficulties.
§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that as a result of the decision to close the Chadderton Employment Exchange workers have to travel up to three miles to register; and what action he will take.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodVery few residents of Chadderton live more than two miles away from the Oldham and Chadderton Employment Exchange, and I see no228W ground for re-opening the office at Chadderton. I hope, however, with the co-operation of employers, to use certain modifications of normal procedure which include obtaining evidence of unemployment from mills where substantial numbers are on short-time.