HC Deb 28 September 1931 vol 257 c26
37. Mr. POTTS

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider legislation to overhaul the whole system of public assistance finance, making it a national responsibility financed direct from national taxation, and apportioning the burden more equitably among those wealthy municipalities better able to bear the increased responsibility?

Mr. SIMON

The answer is in the negative.

Mr. POTTS

Is the hon. Member aware of the unequal and unfair conditions which exist between industrial centres and other parts of the country, and cannot steps be taken to even up this matter by the State taking over the whole responsibility?

Mr. SIMON

I am aware of the difficulties to which the hon. Member refers, but a new system has been introduced, and I think that system ought to be given a fair chance.