HC Deb 13 November 1928 vol 222 cc677-8
27. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the amount of able-bodied relief paid to each married couple, and how much to each child, in the various parish areas in the city of Glagsow; if he is satisfied that this is sufficient to maintain a decent standard of life during the winter; and if he will consider asking the parish councils to give an allowance of coal during the winter months?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The scale of relief in operation in the parishes of Glasgow and Govan for able-bodied unemployed persons is 23s weekly for a married couple, with 2s weekly for each child. From inquiries made from time to time by medical and other officers of the Scottish Board of Health, I am satisfied that this scale is sufficient to prevent any ill effects on the health of the recipients. As regards the last part of the question, I regret that I cannot see my way to recommend the parish councils to make any increase in the scale in the manner suggested.

Mr. BUCHANAN

With reference to the Circular issued by the right hon. Gentleman some time ago, saying that the same scale should be paid as was paid at the Exchange, will he not at least ask that the extra 1s., making it 24s., as at the Exchange, might be paid by the parish council—at least 24s to maintain a man and woman?

Sir J. GILMOUR

No, Sir.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Might I ask the right lion. Gentleman if he would like to ask any of his constituents who voted for him in Pollok to live on 23s a week and maintain a decent standard?

Mr. MAXTON

Will the right bon. Gentleman give more serious consideration to this suggestion about coal?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I have in the past invited the hon. Member to bring to my notice any specific cases for investigation. He has not brought them, and, until he does, I stand by what I have said.

Mr. BUCHANAN

I am asking the right hon. Gentleman a specific question: 1s 23s. sufficient to maintain a decent standard for a married couple? I ask him that question: Is it sufficient, or is it not? Will he not consider adding coa1?

Mr. SPEAKER

This is a mere matter of opinion; it is not a question of fact.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the scale just stated by him is very much lower than in many parts of England?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I am not aware of that fact.

Mr. BUCHANAN

I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter at an early opportunity.