Mr. RHYS DAVES(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the board of guardians of the Bolton Union decided yesterday to discontinue out-relief either in cash or kind to dependants of miners at present out of employment and whether he will make urgent representations to the Board as to their statutory obligations to afford relief to destitute persons.
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThis decision has not previously been brought to my notice, but I will make immediate inquiries. I may, however, say that while boards of guardians are bound to grant necessary relief, the form in which that relief is to be given is a matter for their decision.
Mr. DAVIESIf the facts of the case are as I have given them, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that the Bolton guardians carry out their statutory duties?