HC Deb 12 May 1932 vol 265 cc2056-8
15. Mr. MANDER

asked the Minister of Labour if be will state in how many cases applications for re-examination in connection with the means test have resulted in increased allowances, in no change, and in reduced allowances in respect of Wolverhampton, Willenhall, Wednesfield, and Short Heath?

Sir H. BETTERTON

I undertook on Tuesday to consider whether these figures could be compiled for particular areas. I regret that I could not do this without being prepared to do the same for all areas and the cost of this could not be justified.

16. Mr. McENTEE

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that subcommittees of the Essex county public assistance committee in the Romford area are making a second determination of allowance to those in receipt of transitional payment where any odd pence were included in the first determination, and in each such case reducing the benefit to the nearest lower number of shillings; and whether such reductions are made for the convenience of, and at the request of, the officers of his Department?

Sir H. BETTERTON

These determinations were made on the authority's own initiative. No request has been made by my Department in the matter.

Mr. McENTEE

Will the right hon. Gentleman intimate to the authority concerned that, if there is a difference between the first and second determination, it should be altered to the nearest shilling and not always to the lowest.

Sir H. BETTERTON

No, Sir. I am afraid that I have no power to do anything of the kind. I have no control over the authorities in the matter, which is entirely within their discretion.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is it not the case that, if it is found that any authority is paying more than is considered the proper scale, one of the Departments will interfere and send down a permanent official, and so do away with the public representatives? If the right hon. Gentleman has that power when he thinks they are paying too much, surely he has the same power to increase the amount when they are paying too little?

Sir H. BETTERTON

No, Sir. I can only add to the statement which I have already made that I have no control over the authorities. If they choose to adopt the method which has been suggested in the question, it is entirely a matter for them.