§ 74. Mr. KINLEYasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, on 21st instant, applicants in the West Derby Union for outdoor relief were called upon to sign a declaration that any relief granted would be repaid by the recipient; that relief was refused to those who, being destitute of means, declined to sign; and whether this action was taken upon his instructions?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe answer to the first, second and third parts of my hon. Friend's question is in the negative. As regards the last part, the question whether in any case relief should be given by way of loan is one for the decision of the guardians.
§ Mr. KINLEYIs my right hon. Friend aware that this matter was discussed at the last meeting of the West Derby Board of Guardians, that it has been discussed in the local Press and that a great deal of indignation has been aroused; also, that the guardians themselves, at their meeting, declared that they had taken this action on the instructions of the Minister of Health. Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into it and let me know the result?
§ Mr. GREENWOODYes.
§ Mr. LOVAT-FRASERWill the Minister of Health consult the Law Officers of the Crown as to the legality of this action?
§ 76. Mr. McSHANEasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to a recommendation of the Staffordshire Public Assistance Committee that all out-relief granted should be by way of loan and subject to each recipient signing an agreement to repay within 12 months, and to his authorising his employer to make this repayment by deductions from his wages; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe reply to the first part of my hon. Friend's question is in the negative: as to the last part, under the regulations in force, the matter is one for the decision of the guardians or their successors.