HC Deb 21 March 1912 vol 35 c2054
Mr. PENRY WILLIAMS

asked whether in view of the number of voters thrown out of work by the closing of works and factories owing to the present stoppage in the coal trade, the Government will take measures to prevent such voters from being disfranchised when compelled to seek work in stone yards or to receive any other form of Poor Law relief?

The PRIME MINISTER

The point raised by my hon. Friend could only be met by legislation, which I am not at present prepared to introduce.

Mr. P. WILLIAMS

Is the Prime Minister aware that many poor people have great reluctance in applying for parish relief because of this disqualification, and some of them prefer to starve?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, I am well aware of that condition of things.

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