HC Deb 10 May 1927 vol 206 cc207-8
44. Mr. TAYLOR

asked the Minister of Health whether he has taken any steps to satisfy himself that the scale of special unemployment relief paid to unemployed persons and their dependants in Lincoln is sufficient to maintain such persons in a normal standard of health?

Sir K. WOOD

As has been stated in reply to previous questions put by the hon. Member, this scale is not lower than the scales which are used in a number of other unions and which my right hon. Friend has no reason to suppose insufficient.

Mr. TAYLOR

Are we to take it that the Ministry consider that 2s. a week is a proper sum for the maintenance of a child?

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Is it not a fact that that is the sum which was fixed by the Labour Government when they passed their Unemployment Insurance Act?

Mr. TAYLOR

Can the hon. Gentleman answer my question?

Sir K. WOOD

No, Sir; I am not called upon to give an explanation of this matter?

Mr. TAYLOR

May I ask whether the Ministry of Health will raise any objection to the City Council or other charity organisations supplementing the relief now paid by the boards of guardians, and will the Ministry see that the scale paid by the board of guardians is not reduced because of any charitable contributions? We are not prepared to let people starve, if you are.

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