HC Deb 07 April 1909 vol 3 cc1145-6
Mr. COCHRANE

asked what is the amount of the expenditure on relief of the unemployed in Edinburgh and Glasgow, respectively, during this winter, and what is the amount of the grant given to the distress committees for the relief of the unemployed in each of these cities, respectively?

The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)

The amounts spent on wages (including food) to men provided with work, directly or indirectly, by the distress committees of Edinburgh and Glasgow for the period from 9th November to 27th March, inclusive, were respectively £11,677 and £14,894. As to further expenditure complete information is not at present available. The grant to Glasgow for the year is £29,450, and to Edinburgh £7,373.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

asked what was the total amount of voluntary contributions received by the Edinburgh distress committee during the past financial year?

Mr. URE

I understand the amount was £6,523 8s. 5d.

Mr. MITCHELL - THOMSON

asked whether the raising of a large sum by voluntary contributions to the Edinburgh distress committee has in fact resulted in a diminution of the grant which the committee would otherwise have received from the unemployed fund?

Mr. URE

I fear I cannot give a categorical reply to the hon. Member, as it is impossible for me to say what grant the Committee would have received in hypothetical circumstances; but, speaking broadly, the grants to distress committees have been proportionate to the needs of the locality, and Edinburgh has not in this respect been an exception.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Is it not the fact, without disclosing the exact amount, that nearly 80 per cent. has come from voluntary subscribers?

Mr. URE

That is so.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

asked the Lord Advocate whether he has received any representations from the Edinburgh distress committee to the effect that the funds at their disposal will be exhausted by 15th April, and, if so, what financial provision will be made by the Government to secure the continuance of the work?

Mr. URE

The representations in question have reached the Scottish Office, and are at present under consideration of the Scottish Office in conjunction with the Treasury.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us any assurance that steps will be taken in the matter before l5th April, as there will be no further opportunity of addressing communications to him?

Mr. URE

It is quite certain that the distress committees of Edinburgh will not require to be out of pocket.