HC Deb 22 January 1931 vol 247 c344
30. Mr. LOVAT-FRASER

asked the Home Secretary how many persons were imprisoned for debt during 1929; and how many of the families of such prisoners were compelled to apply for poor relief?

Mr. SHORT

12,708 persons, Including 192 women, were received into prison in 1929 in respect of non-payments of various kinds; namely 4,188 for nonpayment of arrears under maintenance orders; 2,691, arrears of affiliation orders; 2,002, non-payment of rates; 84, Income Tax; 3,381 County Court debts and 362 others. It is not possible to say how many of the families applied for poor relief.

Mr. McSHANE

Will my hon. Friend make inquiry into the allegation that unemployed miners are being sued for out relief dating hack to 1926, which they are totally unable to pay?

Mr. SHORT

I do not think that is a matter for my Department.