asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the Alexandra Palace trustees will be in a difficulty if the suggested grant by the Unemployment Grants Committee is withheld; if he is aware that the work would have found employment for 500 men for three years, and that in anticipation of the grant the preliminary work has been started; and if he can hold out any hope that the grant may be made at an early date?

My hon. Friend has received further representations with regard to this scheme within the last few days, and is considering whether any useful purpose would be served by again referring the matter to the Unemployment Grants Committee, which has already on two occasions declined to recommend a grant.

Is it not a fact that a promise was made that a grant would be made?

A grant can only be made by the Minister on a recommendation from the Unemployments Grants Committee, and that Committee on two occasions have refused to recommend grants.