§ 59. Mr. BRIANTasked the Under secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that a large number of British refugees from Russia are now in England and are absolutely penniless though possessing large amounts in Russian roubles, and that they have had to apply for and receive Poor Law relief; and if he can see that such assistance as is required should be provided by the State and not be a charge on the rates?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir A. Mond)I have been asked to reply. I can only refer the hon. Member to the reply given recently to a similar question by the Leader of the House.
§ Mr. BRIANTCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether funds are still available for the relief of these refugees, and if he thinks it is fair that these unfortunate people should be compelled to apply for Poor Law Belief, and that the ratepayers should be saddled with the burden of maintaining these people?
§ Sir A. MONDI think, if my hon. Friend will refer to the answer given by the Leader of the House, he will find that those points were dealt with.
§ Mr. BRIANTDid the previous answer state whether any means were still available for these refugees, and did it state whether it was thought advisable that they should apply to the Poor Law? If the right hon. Gentleman will look at the answer he will see that those questions are not answered.
§ Sir A. MONDI have referred to it, and I find those points answered.
Mr. RARERIf the Russian Soviet Government are willing to recognise the debts of the Allies why should not these people be given certain monetary consideration for their rouble notes?
§ Sir A. MONDI think notice must be given of that question.