In the House of Commons on Thursday Mr. John Burns
made a detailed statement on the administration of the Unemployed Act, and explained the steps which the Govern- ment propose to take in regard to the problem next autumn and winter. Those responsible for the administration of the Act reported that the men seeking aid were, as a class, more dependent and physically less fit than those in the same position a few years ago,—a result which we cannot regard as in any sense surprising, and one which well illustrates the demoralising effect of our recent policy, a policy in substance of manufacturing paupers. Mr. Burns also noted that with very few exceptions the men who applied for work did not belong to Sick Clubs, Friendly Societies, or Trade-Unions. We may add that the notion that unemployment per se confers on a man a right to public aid and sympathy is not likely to alter this fact, or to induce men to make the sacrifices required of members of benefit societies. With one exception, Mr. Burns had little to say in favour of farm colonies. In regard to relief works, we are glad to note that Mr. Burns took a thoroughly sound line. He thought that they should be the last resource of any community, for they sapped self-reliance, and tended to check the movement and flow of labour. He had never liked the Act passed last Year, and many authorities thought it ought not to be renewed. It was necessary, how- ever, to meet the demands that might arise next winter, and the Government had therefore decided to grant £200,000 out of the Consolidated Fund, which money would be distributed among the Distress Committees according to the needs of their areas. With the money raised by voluntary contribu- tions, there would be £300,000, or possibly 2400,000, available for the winter. For the final solution of the problem the Government looked to legislation ameliorating the social condition of the poor. The principle of the Irish Labourers Bill would be adopted for this country, and rural housing would be improved.
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