§ 26. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that local authorities in Scotland were led to believe that, under the Unemployment Bill, the Government would take over the responsibility for able-bodied relief to the unemployed; and when the Government intends to give effect to their pledge on this subject so that the ratepayers in distressed areas may obtain the aid promised last year?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Hore-Belisha)The only pledge of which I am aware was that given by the Minister of Health, and this pledge is fully implemented by the provisions of the Unemployment Bill. I am not yet in a position to say when Part II of the Bill will be brought into operation.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODWill the Financial Secretary tell us when he will be in a position to make a statement?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAAs I cannot give an answer in respect to the future with accuracy, perhaps the hon. Gentleman will excuse me from answering it now.
§ Mr. GUYWill the hon. Gentleman consider issuing a White Paper showing how the Government will pay 95 per cent. of the cost of able-bodied relief, as there are doubts about this in the minds of local authorities?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI will readily look into the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIn the event of a White Paper being issued, will the hon. Gentleman see that we on this side of the House get the information as well as hon. Members across the way?
§ Mr. KIRKWOODI know, but I only want to make sure.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI am sure the hon. Gentleman will agree that he does not often allow himself to be left out of anything.