HC Deb 12 May 1932 vol 265 cc2070-1
33. Miss RATHB0NE

asked the Minister of Health what steps, if any, are being taken by the Ministry to enforce or promote the carrying out by local authorities of the instruction given to them in Ministry of Health Circular, No. 1138, that, since it is the clear intention of Parliament that the benefit of the new grant shall not enure to persons for whom it is not needed, rent relief should be given only to those who need it and only for so long as they need it; and whether the Ministry has reason to suppose that this instruction is in fact being observed?

Sir H. YOUNG

As the hon. Member is aware, the circular letter which she cites was addressed to local authorities, and I have no reason to suppose that the guidance it gives is being disregarded, but the authorities are not required to report to me the action which they may take in this matter.

Miss RATHBONE

Will the right hon. Gentleman supplement his reply by saying whether the Ministry would consider the advisability of setting up an inquiry so that the House may be satisfied as to whether his instructions are or are not being carried out?

Sir H. YOUNG

The hon. Member knows that local authorities have certain powers under the Act of 1930. I have no reason to believe that these powers are not being properly exercised.

Mr. KIRKW00D

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the grants given by the Government for the relief of people who have children who are suffering from malnutrition are not being used for supplying food because they are taken by house owners for rent?

Sir H. YOUNG

I do not think that the hon. Member's question arises out of the original question, which deals with the tenants occupying houses provided under the Act. The answer is that I have no reason to suppose that local authorities are not acting in accordance with their powers under the Act.

Miss RATHBONE

Will the Minister say whether he has any reason to suppose that the authorities are taking such action. He tells us that he has no reason to suppose that local authorities are not acting in accordance with their powers under the Act; has he any reason to suppose that they are? Should not the House know whether the instructions issued by the Minister of Health are being obeyed?