§ 81. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that relieving officers are receiving instructions to take family allowances into consideration when assessing public assistance payments; and whether, as this will prevent the benefit of family allowances being given to those who are most in need of them, he will take all necessary measures to ensure that the intention of Parliament that all mothers shall benefit from the new allowances is fully implemented.
§ Mr. KeyMy right hon. Friend is aware that instructions have been given as stated in the Question, but these instructions are in accordance with the Poor Law and Family Allowances Acts and he is, therefore, unable to interfere with them.
§ Mr. HyndIs my hon. Friend aware that this will cause surprise and disappointment, that it is repugnant to relieving officers to have to administer such instructions, and that it is contrary to the spirit in which this Act was passed by the House?