UNEMPLOYED SINGLE MEN

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21533, 24 July 1935, Page 18

UNEMPLOYED SINGLE MEN

vo th srnroi or rsa vbsss. I

Sir,—Sheer disgust of the treatment accorded the unemployed single man prompts my entry into print For three weeks I have been endeavouring to obtain relief work. The munificent sum of 17s a week, which comprises the single man's relief wages, would at least have enabled me to contribute towards my board and lodging expenses. For excellent reasons, I cannot leave town. These reasons were stated at the Unemployment Bureau, and resulted in a visit to my home by an official of the Unemployment Department., with numerous enquiries regarding every aspect and detail of a domestic nature. After all this examination, cross-examination, and flllinj in o£ forms, I was informed at the bureau this morning that "my application for town work was refused," No explanation of this refusal was given, and I am faced with the prospect of remaining a burden upon a household which can ill afford it My real grievance lies in the fact that f>r years I have paid all unemployment levies and wage taxes, and now, in time of need, receive no consideration m return. Now, I presume, should I get into arrears with my levy payments, I shall be fined, or, in the event of receiving exemption from payments, shall, in the future, have to pay them just the same when, and if, I do obtain employment It as a fact that to-day the single man is being treated disgracefully. It seems that one is better married, regardless of being an additional burd&i on the country. There are thousands of young men in my position-Mvishing to marry and be good citizens, but it is becoming more apparent that the only way marriage will be achieved will be "on the dole." What a heartbreaking prospect for the single man. At the best, a miserable existence on 17s a week, with no hope o£ getting married, or, in hopeless resignation, a married life dependent upon a meagre relief pay. Surely it is time some steps were taken to give the unfortunate 6ingle man some Incentive to live decently and in reasonable security. In conclusion, I would like to point out that this vast army of single men now receiving the scantiest of consideration, would in certain other circumstances, be the first expected to serve their country. This letter voices, not only my own ppinions, but is also a fairly accurate expression of those of the majority of similar unfortunates.— i \ours, etc., i DISHEARTENED. July 16, 1935. ["lf the correspondent has any definite reason for staying in the city, he can either write, td me or call and see me," said Mr M. Ross, certifying officer | to the Unemployment Board.]