§ 70. Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKEasked the Minister of Labour whether the Unemployment Grants Committee is still functioning; if so, what schemes have been approved during the last three 1090 months; the expenditure involved in those schemes; and how much of this expenditure will fall on the local authorities concerned and how much on the Exchequer, whether by way of loan or otherwise; and whether it is the intention of the Government to discourage local authorities from embarking on costly schemes, in view of the financial situation?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)The answer to the first part of this question is in the affirmative. Since 1st September last the committee has approved 179 schemes, estimated to cost £3,500,000. Approximately 22.5 per cent. of the total cost of these schemes will be borne by the Exchequer and the balance by the local authorities concerned. With regard to the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to a circular letter issued by the Ministry of Health, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTECan the hon. Gentleman say whether it is still the rule, in making these grants, that 75 per cent. of those who are employed should be ex-service men?
§ Mr. HUDSONI should like to have notice of that question.