HC Deb 12 December 1928 vol 223 cc2107-8
36. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the practice of inquiry into family incomes is still being carried out by his Department; if he can state the reason why this practice continues; and if it is in any way taken into consideration previous to benefit being granted?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Yes, Sir; in accordance with decisions of the Umpire, such inquiries are relevant in certain classes of claims to benefit.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Whence does the right hon. Gentleman derive his authority under Statute for inquiring into the family income of an unemployed person?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

The case generally arises in connection with claims to dependant's benefit. For example, it may be a question whether the wife of a claimant is herself in business or is helping to maintain the children, or whether the claimant would be entitled to dependant's benefit in respect of them. That is the type of case in which such inquiry generally is made.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in cases where no such thing as dependant's benefit arises, family income is being inquired into; and may I ask him the question I have put on the Paper, namely, is family income taken into account when benefit is refused or granted?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

It cannot be taken into account for diminishing or increasing the amount of benefit granted. It could only be taken into account in deciding how far certain conditions are satisfied. For example, if a claim is made by a woman as a charwoman, the amount of income that is being drawn or enjoyed by her husband may be material in deciding whether she is genuinely seeking work or not. But, as I have said, that is not a usual case; the cases that generally arise are in respect of dependant's benefit.

Mr. BUCHANAN rose

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Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members must really understand that other hon. Members will not have a chance of putting their questions if we spend too much time over one question.

Mr. BUCHANAN

I have taken very little time on questions.

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must remember that he is not the only one.

Mr. BUCHANAN

This is a very important question.