asked the Minister of Labour the number of Employment Exchanges in the United Kingdom; what is the annual charge for rent or interest on capital in respect of these premises; and what is the annual cost of their administration?

The number of Employment Exchanges in Great Britain at the present time is 420, exclusive of Branch Employment Offices. I am informed by H.M. Office of Works that the sum represented by rent of these premises and interest at 5 per cent, on the purchase price of those which belong to the Government is approximately £175,000 for the current year. This includes a number of temporary hirings due to the present abnormal rate of unemployment. Employment Exchanges in Ireland are not included. With regard to the annual cost of administration of Employment Exchanges, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply to the hon. Member for Cardiff East (Mr. Lougher) yesterday, copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member.