§ 43. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the increased burdens imposed on ratepayers in the County of Durham owing to public assistance; that members of this council, representing all parties, are demanding that public assistance rendered necessary by claims due to unemployment should be made a national charge; and what action he intends to take to reduce the burden?
§ Sir K. WoodI am aware that the Durham County Council have recently adopted increased scales of relief which will no doubt impose an additional charge on the ratepayers in the county. The cost of assistance to the unemployed is already borne almost entirely by the Exchequer. In view of these facts, I do not think that it is necessary to take any action.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the increase in rates is largely attributable to the burdens imposed by national legislation, particularly as regards unemployment assistance, and is it not time that the Government dealt with this matter not only in Durham, but throughout the country?
§ Sir K. WoodThis county, as a matter of fact, has received a considerable increase under the new block grant.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the increase afforded to that county under the block grant is out of all proportion to the amount that is 2102 being expended by the council on public assistance? Will the right hon. Gentleman oblige with an answer?