asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the increased cost of living he will take steps, by introducing proposals for legislation, if necessary, to increase the unemployment assistance rates for county boroughs.

It is not considered feasible to introduce legislation for the purpose of increasing the rates of unemployment assistance payable in county boroughs. The position of unemployed persons is, however, continuously under review and active consideration.

When the Minister says that this matter is under consideration, will he undertake to take into consideration the number of people who have been deprived of unemployment assistance recently?

That is taken into consideration.