BRITISH POLITICS.

Hokitika Guardian, 5 February 1930, Page 5

BRITISH POLITICS.

THE UNEMPLOYED

L United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph .—Copy r igh t. J

LONDON, Feb. 3

In the House of Commons, on a motion for the third reading of the Consolidated Fund Bill, Sir H. Steel Maitlaml raised the unemployment problem, pointing out that the number of workloss is now higher than at any period for seven years past, and nearly fifty thousand more than last year.

Rt. Hon J.\H. Thomas, replying, admitted that the live register figures were worse, and moreover, that at least one hundred thousand must he added by the end of this month, by reason of the operation of the nyw Unemployment Insurance Bill; but said it would be a profound mistake to- magnify the figures. Business meu told him that a false impression was doing incalculable harm.

Mr Samuel pleaded that in this national emergency both sides should be summoned to aid the Government. He asked how far had Mr Thomas proceeded with hiis plans for Emjiire development.

The Bill was read the third time

GOVERNMENT COMPROMISE

ijONDON, Feb. 4.

; A meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party considered the House of Lords Amendment to the Unemployment Insurance Bill. It is understood the Government are prepared to amend the clause, making .the measure operative in three years, instead of one.