HC Deb 20 July 1939 vol 350 cc688-9
15. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the in adequacy of the sum of 23s. 3d., which is the average payment made by the Unemployment Assistance Board to applicants for assistance, he will take steps to have these payments increased?

Mr. E. Brown

I do not agree that the inference implied by the hon. Member's question can properly be drawn from the average amount of the Board's allowances. These allowances are, as the hon. Member is aware, carefully adjusted to the circumstances of the individual case and range in amount from a few shillings to fifty shillings or more.

17. Mr. Graham White

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Liverpool Public Assistance Committee has declined to grant dental treatment to men recommended to enter training centres; and whether he will consider the advisability of amending Section 54 of the Unemployment Act, 1934, so as to enable the Unemployment Assistance Board to meet the needs of applicants in this respect?

Mr. Brown

I am not aware that the Liverpool public assistance committee has taken the action suggested, and am making inquiry.