An Unemployment (Relief Works) Bill was read a second time
in the House of Commons on Thursday, November 18th. Mr. Munro explained that the Bill would empower departments and local bodies to acquire land compulsorily for "works of public utility with a view to finding immediate employment for the unemployed," subject to the approval of the Ministry of Labour. The Bill authorized one local authority to co-operate With another. Mr. Munro urged that, though the Bill was not a complete solution of the problem, it would expedite relief works, such as new roads, improved waterways, and drainage schemes. Sir H. P. Harris, on behalf of the London County Council, said that the Bill did not confer sufficient powers, and that the Council would not be able to begin work on the new roads round London this year. Other members criticized the Bill severely as opening the way to unprofitable expenditure
on unnecessary projects. The proposed Greater London roads are, however, very urgently needed.
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