§ 10. Mr. KINLEYasked the Minister of Labour how many local education authorities are affected by the reduced grant for training centres, juvenile unemployment; and what amount will be thrown upon the local education rates in consequence?
§ Miss BONDFIELDIn general there has been no reduction in the rate of grant, which has been maintained at 75 per cent. of approved expenditure. In accordance, however, with the proposals recommended by the National Advisory Councils for juvenile employment a grant on the 100 per cent. basis is no longer admissible except in certain very limited classes of cases. Seven authorities are affected. One of them has decided to close its centres, but the others have not so far done so and I trust will not do so. I cannot say what the effect on the rates will be, as this depends on 1152 various uncertain factors. The total reduction in grant, assuming all the centres to continue, would be on the basis of last year's working, under £2,000 per annum.
§ Mr. KINLEYIn view of the fact that the Minister of Labour can ascertain the amount that is going to be thrown on local or national funds by the development of these training centres, will she not endeavour to obtain the figures for which I ask?
§ Miss BONDFIELDI will certainly make an effort to obtain them.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIf a local authority proves that it is a necessitous area, is that fact taken into consideration?
§ Miss BONDFIELDSpecial consideration is given to a distressed area.
§ Mr. HARRISIf an education authority is identified with this work, is it not rather necessary that some contribution should be made, however small?