§ 40. Mr. R. RICHARDSONasked the Minister of Health in what respect the action of the Chester-le-Street guardians, in the administration of relief, went beyond Circular 703, issued by his Department?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINApart from any other matter, the Circular to which the hon. Member refers included a statement of the law governing the grant of relief during an industrial dispute, and the guardians refused to observe the requirements of that law.
§ Mr. LAWSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that counsel's opinion was taken on the general interpretation of the Merthyr Tydvil decision, which involves Circular 703, and, in view of that fact, is he prepared to admit that counsel's opinion was given against the Ministry's decision more than against the guardians?