§ 22. Mr. ALBERYasked the Lord Privy Seal whether schemes in connection with the relief of unemployment have been submitted by the municipality of Graves-end; and whether he has approved such schemes?
Mr. THOMASThe Gravesend Town Council have submitted the outline of schemes in contemplation by them, subject to certain conditions. No formal application for a grant has yet been received by the Unemployment Grants Committee but discussion with the council is proceeding.
§ Mr. ALBERYIn view of the appeal which the right hon. Gentleman has made to all Members of the House, is he able and willing to allow some latitude in the conditions of these relief schemes?
Mr. THOMASInstead of helping, I I am satisfied that it would hamper them if I were merely to announce some change from week to week or month to month. It would retard local authorities, it would be unfair to those who have already submitted schemes, and I repeat that the terms are the final terms of the Government.
§ Mr. ALBERYAre not those terms in certain special circumstances subject to some variation?
Mr. THOMASThere are circumstances which always arise and which are taken into consideration. The important principle is that there is no special benefit to one locality as against another.