HC Deb 27 October 1932 vol 269 cc1151-2
60. Mr. CULVERWELL

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to forbid the expenditure by municipalities of public money on housing and feeding persons who pass through their areas with the purpose, not of seeking employment, but of political agitation?

Sir H. YOUNG

I have no power to vary the existing limitations on the legal powers and duties of a municipality. A public assistance authority is bound to provide assistance required by individuals in need. On the other hand it is not, as I have said in reply to an earlier question, their duty to take exceptional action either to help political demonstrations or to encourage the undesirable practice of making use of the facilities of the Poor Law for such indirect purposes.

Mr. CULVERWELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if these political agitators visit London at the ratepayers' expense it is an encouragement to others? Will he take steps to have his answer conveyed to the local authorities, so that they may stop doing this?

Mr. THORNE

Will you define what is a political agitator?

Mr. CULVERWELL

You.

Mr. THORNE

And so are you.