HC Deb 08 July 1937 vol 326 cc548-9
31. Mr. Tinker

asked the Minister of Health the figures of those areas which have control of Poor Law relief where more than 10 per cent. of those in receipt of old age pensions are given assistance; and the name of the county that has the greatest number of old age pensioners who apply for relief?

Sir K. Wood

I am unable to supply the information asked for in the first part of the question, as the records of old age pensioners are not arranged on a geographical basis. As regards the second part, the administrative county in which the largest number of old age pensioners was in receipt of relief on 1st January last was London.

Mr. Tinker

May I press the right hon. Gentleman to try to get the information asked for in the first part of the question? This matter is causing a lot of unrest in the country. Some parts are harder hit than others. Surely the right hon. Gentleman can get the information if he desires, and I hope that he will.

Sir K. Wood

I should have to ask each local authority, and that would entail a great deal of work. General figures have been submitted from time to time.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman recommend an increase in old age pensions?