HC Deb 15 September 1931 vol 256 cc654-5
22. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Health whether any and, if so, what steps have been taken to limit the borrowing and expenditure of money by local authorities on schemes in respect of which, grants are made by the Unemployment Grants Committee?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Chamberlain)

As already announced, the rates of grant are to be reduced and all applications will be carefully scrutinised.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

May I ask whether it has been made clear to the Unemployment Grants Committee that the Ministry of Health, so far from encouraging local authorities to borrow money, are now anxious to restrict their borrowing?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The Unemployment Grants Committee are about, to issue a circular to local authorities in which the right hon. and gallant Member will find the answer to his question.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any grants which have been authorised are being stopped, or whether commitments which have been entered into are to be carried through?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

There is no going back on commitments already entered into.

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