70. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Minister of Health in how many cases he has exercised his powers to defer payment of interest and the repayment of the principal of temporary loans made to boards of guardians for the relief of the able-bodied unemployed; and, in view of the heavy burdens placed on local authorities, will he use his powers more freely in this direction in the future?
§ Sir K. WOODLoans have been advanced by my right hon. Friend on the recommendation of the Goschen Committee to 29 boards of guardians. Payment of interest has been deferred in five cases and repayment of principal in 28 cases. The terms of repayment in every case are determined after full consideration of the particular circumstances of the area, and deferment is granted wherever the circumstances so require.