HC Deb 22 November 1939 vol 353 cc1197-8
13. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that three women employed by his Department were recently billeted at 2d. per night each on a Middleton, Lancashire, woman, aged 76, drawing out-relief; and whether he will state on what basis this sum was arrived at?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir; three members of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force were so billeted between 29th September and 13th October, on which date they were posted to other duties. The arrangement was, I understand, agreeable to the householder, and the amount paid was in accordance with the scale laid down in regulations. The scale is common to the three Services and provides for such a payment for each individual where unfurnished accommodation only is provided, as was the case here.

Mr. Davies

Does the right hon. Gentleman contend that 2d. a night is sufficient for this purpose, and is he aware that the public assistance committee of Oldham, who were paying this old lady out-relief, unanimously passed a resolution of sheer disgust with the right hon. Gentleman?

Sir K. Wood

As the hon. Member knows, this payment was in accordance with the scale of the three Services.

Mr. Davies

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it is time that he altered the scale?

Sir K. Wood

I must abide by the regulations.

Mr. Garro Jones

Is the right hon. Gentleman content to allow this scandalous scale to continue? Does he propose to take any steps to have it changed?

Sir K. Wood

In this particular case I understand the arrangement was made with the householder in question.

Mr. George Griffiths

Winning the war on 2d. a night.