HC Deb 27 November 1930 vol 245 cc1488-9
59. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Minister of Health whether the Government propose to render any financial assistance to the necessitous areas; and whether he can state approximately the benefit to such areas under the new Local Government Act?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The Government have already afforded considerable financial assistance to the more heavily burdened areas through the operation of the Unemployment Insurance Act, 1929 and by increased grants for works for the relief of unemployment. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer to the reply which was given to a question by the hon. Member for Brecon and Radnor (Mr. Freeman) on 17th instant.

Sir K. WOOD

Is it a fact that the right hon. Gentleman has just received a deputation and declined to give any further assistance to these areas?

Mr. GREENWOOD

That is not a fact, and I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will withdraw it.

Sir K. WOOD

Did the right hon. Gentleman on that occasion state that the benefit which was received by these areas under the Local Government Act was substantial?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The right hon. Gentleman seems to know, so that there is no reason for me to answer the question.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is the right hon. Gentleman—

HON. MEMBERS

Order!