HC Deb 25 July 1927 vol 209 cc844-5
56. Mr. GROVES

asked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared to take action in cases where relief granted in the West Ham Union area is not adequate to prevent destitution?

Sir K. WOOD

My right hon. Friend is not at present aware of cases in which the relief granted by the guardians is inadequate, but, as he has frequently intimated in reply to earlier questions, if the hon. Member will give him particulars of any specific case which he has in mind my right hon. Friend will make inquiries.

Mr. GROVES

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of a case where a man was given a shilling a day in two halves, and would he not consider that inadequate?

Sir K. WOOD

I would much prefer to see particulars of the case.

Mr. GROVES

Will the hon. Gentleman deal with it if I send it to him?

Sir K. WOOD

If the hon. Gentleman will send any of these cases we will look into them.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it not a fact that the Commissioners decide whether it is adequate relief, and that there is no appeal from their decision?

Sir K. WOOD

The board of guardians of West Ham occupies the same position as any other board. If the hon. Gentleman likes to send on any other case we will see that it is investigated.

57. Mr. GROVES

asked the Minister of Health the highest and lowest amount of outdoor relief granted in the West Ham Union area in July, 1926 and 1927?

Sir K. WOOD

The highest and lowest amounts paid in out relief in any week of July, 1926, were £18,861 and £17,283, respectively; the corresponding figures for 1927 were £8,952 and £8,647.