§ 76. Mr. McSHANEasked the Minister of Health under what regulation a county council under the new Local Government Act has power to request that all applicants for out relief shall sign a form agreeing to repay such relief within 12 months?
§ Mr. GREENWOODUntil the Act comes into operation on 1st April, County Councils have no power in this matter, but Article 13 of the Relief Regulation Order, 1911, which is still in force provides that any relief which may be given to or on account of any person above the age of 21 or to his wife or any member of his family under the age of 16 in accordance with those Regulations may, if the guardians think fit, be given by way of loan.
§ Mr. McSHANEThis has become a serious matter. Is an alteration of these regulations within the competence of the right hon. Gentleman?
§ Mr. GREENWOODYes, Sir.
§ Mr. McSHANEIf a general order like this insisting upon poor people repaying under threat and giving them 12 months in which to do so acts as a deterrent upon poor people coming for relief, will ray right hon. Friend have the regulation altered?
§ Mr. GREENWOODIt is not a matter of regulation. It is a matter of law, and it would require legislation to alter it.