HC Deb 28 January 1937 vol 319 cc1037-9
2. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether the Unemployment Assistance Board made any reductions in payments to applicants for assistance before 25th December, 1936; and whether there is a national uniform administration of the new Regulations being applied?

Mr. E. Brown

As regards the first part of the question, I am informed by the Board that no reduction in allowances were made before 25th December in consequence of the new Regulations. Such adjustments as were made were due to changes of circumstances known to affect the applications. As regards the second part of the question, the Regulations are administered on a uniform basis throughout the country, with due regard, of course, to the circumstances of the individual case, but subject to local adjustments in the light of recommendations from advisory committees on such matters as rent, rural conditions, and the transition to the new Regulations.

11. Mr. Logan

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Liverpool Public Assistance and General Purposes Sub-committee recommended that, in respect of the week which includes the date of the Coronation, relief shall be increased by 3s. to each adult and 2s. in respect of each child; what action he intends to take; and what allowances, if any, he is prepared to recommend to be given to the unemployed in Coronation week?

Mr. Brown

As regards the first two parts of the question, this is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, but I would refer the hon. Member to the Circular, 1579, which has already been issued to the local authorities on this matter. As regards the third part of the question, the matter is under consideration, and I will make a statement when a decision has been reached.

Mr. Logan

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I say that I have been studying the matter and am aware of the position? I am asking the Minister whether he is willing to give to the unemployed the concession which the Public Assistance Committee of Liverpool are desirous of giving to those who are recipients of Poor Law relief? Is there any legitimate reason why it should not be given?

Mr. Brown

Perhaps the hon. Member will await the decision and then put a question down, after he has seen whether or not the decision is in the direction that he desires.

Mr. Logan

Is there any reason why one should wait when one can get an answer now?