REDUCTION IN RELIEF SUMS

Taranaki Daily News, 10 December 1931, Page 2

REDUCTION IN RELIEF SUMS

POSITION IN NORTH TARANAKI. REPLY TO REPRESENTATIONS. The reduction in the amount allocated for unemployment relief in the North Taranaki district this week is due to the decrease in local registrations, according to a reply by the Unemployment Board to representations made by Mr. S. G. Smith, M.P. The reduction in the allocation this week resulted in the cutting down by one of the number of days work fox - men in the North Taranaki district. Mr. Smith telegraphed the board asking for the latest information regarding the funds available and whether the method of allocation had been changed. He found the position at New Plymouth was getting progressively worse and all workers were having one day deducted in the coming week. Many who had to stand down the previous week had no call in the present week. He asked whether it would be possible to increase the allocation next week.

In reply to Mr. Smith’s enquiries the board has replied that the allocation of funds available was being made to all centres to the full extent and on precisely the same basis, which was on the number of registrations at each centre. It could not be said, therefore, that the board was not giving New Plymouth equal treatment with other centres. The recent reduction in the New Plymouth grants was due to the decrease in local registrations. The board regretted, therefore, that it was not possible to accede to Mr. Smith’s request for an increased allocation next week. Mr. Smith also telegraphed the board stating that last year the No. 2 scheme was of great assistance to farmers with their harvesting and many inquiries were being made as to whether they could be helped in the present year. He asked the board to advise him what steps it proposed to take to ensure that the Christmas period should, be brightened for the unemployed-relief workers. Last year’s effort was much appreciated. The board replied that it was considering the matter of special extra relief for Christmas and hoped the Minister would be able to make a statement shortly.