HC Deb 25 April 1932 vol 265 cc39-40
58. Mr. PARKINSON for

asked the Minister of Health the number of persons in receipt of institutional relief in Lancashire during the month of July, 1931, and during the latest month for which figures are available?

Mr. E. BROWN

The number of persons in receipt of institutional poor relief (excluding casuals and rate-aided patients in mental hospitals) in the geographical county of Lancashire on Saturday, the 25th July, 1931, was 26,365, and on Saturday, the 9th April, 1932, 26,171.

59. Mr. PARKINSON for

asked the Minister of Health the number of persona in receipt of public assistance, and the amount paid, in Lancashire for the month of July, 1931, and for the latest month for which such figures are available?

Mr. BROWN

It is assumed that the hon. Member is referring to out-relief. The average numbers of persons (men, women and children) in receipt of out-relief (excluding persons in receipt of outdoor medical relief only) in the geographical county of Lancashire during four weeks in July, 1931, and in March, 1932, were 113,181 and 153,258 respectively. The amounts of out-relief in money and kind paid to such persons during those periods were £129,971 and £172,519 respectively.

Mr. LAWSON

Can the hon. Member give any explanation for the increase of 40,000?

Mr. BROWN

There are many explanations, including the Labour Government's Anomalies Act. [Interruption.] The hon. Member asked me if I could give an explanation, and I was providing one.

Mr. BATEY

Will the Minister say how much of the increase was due to the Labour Government's Anomalies Act?

Mr. BROWN

The hon. Member had better put that question on the Order Paper.

Mr. BATEY

You said it. You should not make such statements.