HC Deb 25 March 1935 vol 299 c1577
30. Mr. THORNE

asked the Minister of Labour the total amount of benefit arrears that have been repaid to the various local authorities and the number of persons affected?

Mr. HUDSON

I am unable at present to add to the information given in the statement published in the OFFICIAL REPORT of 7th March, 1935. The examination of the claims from local authorities in respect of the part payments to claimants for arrears of unemployment assistance allowances has not yet been completed.

Mr. THORNE

Do I understand that the Department has not yet squared up with the local authorities who have made transitional payments?

Mr. HUDSON

The hon. Member asked me what was the total amount of benefit arrears.

Mr. THORNE

Surely the matter ought to be squared up by now?

Mr. HUDSON

We are still getting communications from local authorities. We are not yet certain whether all the local authorities have sent in their claims.