38. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the increase in the amount of the Poor Rate in many industrial areas in England and Wales, he will recommend the Government to make grants to the Poor Law authorities in England and Wales similar to those granted to the Scottish parish councils?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo, Sir. As has been fully explained in recent Debates, the considerations which led the Government to make provision for grants to Scottish Poor Law authorities in no way apply to England and Wales.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a grant to England similar to that made to Scotland?
§ Mr. THURTLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the Debate to which he refers there was no satisfactory answer given to the question why Scotland should have preferential treatment?
§ Mr. TAYLORDo the Government contemplate making any block grant to these industrial areas at an early date?
§ Mr. BARRIs it the case that this is a small reparation to Scotland for the, fact that for generations she has been supporting the able-bodied poor in England?