53. Mr. W. JOSEPH STEWARTasked the Minister of Health whether it is the intention of the Government to equalise the cost of public assistance throughout the country so as to help local authorities in the Special Areas to meet the cost of relief of the aged and sick poor, who are increasing in proportion to the rest of the population in these areas owing to the transfer of the young and able-bodied to other parts of the country?
§ Sir K. WOODI cannot anticipate the general statement which will be made in due course of the Government's policy in relation to this and other proposals affecting the Special Areas.
§ Mr. E. J. WILLIAMSDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that this would be a greater relief to distressed areas than perhaps any other thing he could do?
Mr. STEWARTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the cost of public assistance has increased in these areas, and can he give us an assurance that something will be done to help local governing bodies who are working under great disabilities?
§ Sir K. WOODI have already said that I cannot anticipate the statement which the Government will make on this matter.