HC Deb 09 June 1937 vol 324 cc1765-6
77. Mr. David Adams

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that the County Council of Durham expends approximately the sum of 300,000 annually upon outdoor relief granted in supplementing old age pensions, widows' and orphans' pensions and workmen's compensation; and whether he proposes to introduce legislation amending the appropriate Acts whereby persons concerned may be enabled to receive adequate amounts for their requirements, and thus obviate the necessity of applying for public assistance?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

I am not aware of the figure of relief quoted by the hon. Member, as it includes workmen's compensation, as to which I have no information. As regards old age and widows' pensions, the facts over the country as a whole in relation to poor relief do not support the assumption on which the hon. Member's question is based, as the number of old age and widow pensioners who are in receipt of relief is less than 10 per cent. of the total number of such pensioners.

Mr. Adams

Are we to understand that the Government are satisfied with the continued impoverishment of these people and with the necessity for drawing upon the local authorities accordingly?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

I cannot agree with the premise of the hon. Gentleman's question.

Mr. T. Smith

Do we understand than the Government do not intend to bring in any amending legislation with regard to compensation?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

Compensation is not a matter with which I could deal.

Mr. G. Griffiths

Is the Financial Secretary aware that in almost every case, when a woman becomes a widow, she applies almost immediately for public assistance, because the los. is of no use to her?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

That is not borne out by the figures I have quoted. I repeat that the number of old age and widow pensioners who are in receipt of relief is less than 10 per cent. of the total number of such pensioners.

Mr. Davidson

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that in Glasgow there has been an increase of 3,000 old age pensioners seeking public assistance during the past two years?

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