The Problem of Unemployment
One of the outcomes of the 1911 census figures is that the number of unemployed is now known. The problem, according to The Freeman’s Journal, is that while the numbers may be known, the solution is not. The paper argues that the skilled unemployed are in a more secure position because of workers' insurance and because they have a higher chance of re-entering employment in a relatively short period of time.
The unskilled, or casual labourer are not so lucky. As a result of being casual employees they have no access to insurance, and they are less likely to be assisted by a Labour Exchange in finding work. The paper argues that this situation has to change: that the insurance scheme should be extended to casual workers, and that Labour Exchanges should adapt a more flexible approach in trying to place these people who live so close to the subsistence level.