56. Lieut.-Colonel WATTS- MORGAN forasked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that the Glasgow Parish Council have been compelled to raise the rate by Is. 6d. for next year; that the estimated expenditure for able-bodied relief this year is £1,424,000, as compared with £1,293,263 last year; that the council has refused relief to miners' wives and children; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?
§ The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Sir John Gilmour)I am aware that Glasgow Parish Council, in the exercise of their discretion, have decided to increase their poor rate this year by the figure stated. I understand that the parish council have adopted this policy in order to avoid the accumulation of debt. I am informed that the estimated expenditure on able-bodied relief for the current year is £500,000. It is not the case that the parish council have refused relief to miners' wives and children. The parish council have arranged to supply food as required in destitute cases at feeding centres. In the circumstances, I do not see that further action on my part, as suggested by the hon. Member, is called for.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this alleged gambling took place in a constituency represented by a Conservative Member?