HC Deb 23 April 1934 vol 288 cc1374-5
27. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the Minister of Labour the number of claims for transitional benefit considered by the public assistance committee of the West Riding County Council from November, 1931, to the latest available date, giving the percentage of awards of full benefit, reduced benefit, and nil determinations.

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY OF LABOUR (Mr. R. S. Hudson)

As the reply includes a table of figures, I will, if I may, circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

needs test to contribute towards the family income had been allowed to retain a minimum of 25s. per week for their own uses?

Mr. HUDSON

I am afraid that there are no statistics on which such an estimate can be based.

Mr. MACLAY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the question raised here causes a great deal of bitterness among the families affected, and does he not think it is worth some effort to get an estimate of what this relief would cost?

Mr. HUDSON

The hon. Member will be aware that to meet this position we are making special provision in the Unemployment Bill now before Parliament.

Captain Sir WILLIAM BRASS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the present practice is breaking up families in many parts of the country?

Mr. HUDSON

No, Sir, I could not possibly accept the accuracy of that statement.