§ 71. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the number of unemployed persons in the county of Durham is greater now than in 1927, when the basis of the block grant was agreed upon, and the sole revision was in 1933, when a small measure of relief was provided; that the burden is still greater than the block grant formula intended; and what steps he proposes to take to reduce the load which the ratepayers are now bearing?
§ Sir K. WOODI am aware of the increase in the volume of unemployment in the county of Durham since 1927, and would remind the hon. Member that the basis of distribution of the block grant payable under the Local Government Act, 1929, is, in accordance with the provisions of Section 110 of that Act, now being investigated in consultation with the Associations of Local Authorities with a view to determining what changes, if any, should be made with effect from 1st April, 1937. In addition to the block grant the county council is receiving since 1st March, 1935, a special grant (equivalent to a rate of Is. 4d.) under the Unemployment Assistance Acts.