§ 55. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the increasing strain caused on certain local authorities by the prolonged period of unemployment, he can now state the result of the investigations of his committee inquiring into the possibility of securing a definition of a necessitous area upon which the Government can act for the purpose of granting temporary financial assistance?
Major BARNST0N (for Sir A. Mond)My right hon. Friend presumes that the hon. Member refers to the scheme recently submitted on behalf of certain Poor Law authorities. He has come to the conclusion, after full consideration, that this scheme is one which he cannot recommend the Government to accept. The hon. Member will no doubt be aware that a Measure is now in progress which will give material financial assistance to Poor Law authorities, and indirectly to other local authorities, by reducing the "gaps" in unemployment insurance benefit.
§ Mr. THOMSONWould the hon. Gentleman make representations to the Minister of Health that what has been done is entirely inadequate to relieve necessitous areas, and will he submit a counter-scheme for their consideration if he cannot accept the one they have put forward?
§ Mr. THORNEWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman convey to the Minister of Health that between now and September, unless the Government come to the relief of some of the boards of guardians, the rates are going to be increased at least 2s. in the pound?