§ 71. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total sum involved in the alleged overpayment by Greenock Public Assistance Committee to people on relief and reported to him by public auditors; and if any exception has been taken to the amount paid to a child and, if so, what is the amount so taken exception to?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe interim report lodged by the auditor relates to payments of relief to the able-bodied poor for the two weeks commencing the 3rd and 10th January, 1934. The amount of expenditure during these two weeks which the auditor has reported as being in his opinion contrary to law is £78 15s. 2d. As regards the second part of the question, the auditor's report does not state the family circumstances of each case and I am unable to give the information asked for. The question raised by the interim report will be fully inquired into.
§ Mr. BUCHANANWill the right hon. Gentleman himself give a decision in this matter, and, if so, can he give any indication when it will be made?
§ Sir G. COLLINSUntil I have received representations from the parties concerned I am not in a position to give any decision on the matter.
§ Mr. MAXTONAs the hon. Member for the division concerned will the right hon. Gentleman see that they are treated fairly?