HC Deb 26 October 1939 vol 352 cc1568-9
45. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Prime Minister the reasons for the variations in allowances for children by different Departments; and the amount which the Government consider adequate to feed, house, and clothe a mother and four children at the present cost of living?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

The reason for the differences in the allowances for children to which the hon. Member refers is that there are wide differences in the circumstances they are designed to meet. In reply to the last part of the question, it would be impossible to name a figure which would cover all circumstances.

Mrs. Hardie

Is the Prime Minister aware that the amount granted in respect of soldiers' wives and children is lower than that given by many public assistance authorities?

Mr. Gallacher

Would the Prime Minister not consider applying in all cases the amount fixed in respect of the maintenance of an evacuated child, and make an allowance of 8s. for soldiers' and other children?

The Prime Minister

It does not sound to me like a practical suggestion.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell the House what are the wide differences of circumstances which justify the wide differences in the various scales?

The Prime Minister

This is a wide subject and I could not at this time go into it in detail; but I might point out that in some cases other resources are available and in other cases they are not.

Mr. A. Edwards

As the answer of the right hon. Gentleman is so unsatisfactory, I beg to give notice that I propose to raise the matter on the Adjournment.