HC Deb 10 December 1935 vol 307 cc728-9
40. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that in Scotland many public assistance committees impose a maximum family income for applicants for relief; and whether, in view of the Government decision not to impose such a limit in the case of applicants for transitional benefit, he will have a circular issued advising public assistance committees not to enforce the family maximum income?

Sir G. COLLINS

I am aware that some local authorities frame scales of relief which include a maximum household income. It is, however, the statutory duty of a local authority in dealing with an application for relief to make whatever provision is necessary after considering all the circumstances of the applicant, and this must override the provisions of any scale framed by the authority. Any applicant who is dissatisfied with the amount of relief granted to him by a local authority has a statutory right to complain to the Department of Health. That right is well known and, in the circumstances, I do not think it is necessary to issue any circular to the local authorities.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the family maxi- mum now becomes in effect the maximum income which is granted and is rarely if ever varied, particularly in the City of Glasgow; and in view of the new conditions pertaining to the transitional benefit people, will he ask Glasgow Corporation particularly to review their decision on this matter?

Sir G. COLLINS

I shall be happy to discuss the particular matter of the Corporation of Glasgow with hon. Members in this House. I understand that applicants dissatisfied with the amount granted have the right, as they have always had, and will continue to have, to appeal to the Department of Health.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is it not a reason why the family maximum should be abolished, seeing that they retain that right and that the family maximum is not necessary if they retain that appeal?

Sir G. COLLINS

The hon. Member suggests a revision of the family allowance, which would involve legislation.

Mr. BUCHANAN

You have issued circulars to decrease it.