HC Deb 05 December 1935 vol 307 cc269-71
6. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in certain cases in Glasgow persons in receipt of transitional benefit have had their benefit reduced; that such benefit had been granted by the public assistance committee before the regulations came into force; that under the standstill arrangement, unless circumstances changed, no alteration in the amount was to be made; that the extra money granted for the children has been deducted from another member of the family; and whether he will take steps to see the law is carried out?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

My right hon. Friend has no reason to suppose that the law is not being properly carried out in Glasgow, but he would point out that any applicant who is aggrieved by his determination under the stand-still has the right of appeal to the appeal tribunal.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that they are interfering with the stand-still agreement, and that men who have been paid certain sums under that are now being reduced? Is it necessary for an applicant to appeal in order that the law might be carried out in his particular case?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

It is clear, it seems to me, that if an applicant is dissatisfied with the determination that is made in his case, his proper course is to go to the appeal tribunal.

Mr. BUCHANAN

But is it not the case that the law should be carried out and that the law says that the stand-still agreement should be maintained, and should the hon. and gallant Gentleman not see that that stand-still agreement and the Act are carried out, apart from any appeal?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I said in my original answer that my right hon. Friend has no reason to suppose that the law is not being properly carried out.

Mr. BUCHANAN

I beg to give notice that I will raise this question on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House to-night.

Mr. SILVERMAN

Is it not a fact that no information is given to the applicant on the form that he has a right of appeal, and that every possible obstacle is put in the way of his making an appeal?

Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEAD

I cannot say whether or not it is put on the form, but as to the last part of the hon. Member's assumption, I certainly cannot agree with it.