§ 45. Mr. Spriggsasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if determination of need is based upon what an applicant for National Assistance received in wages before applying; and what amount of assistance would be granted to two people whose needs were identical, but whose last wages were £8 and £16 per week, respectively.
§ The Minister of Pensions and National Insurance (Mr. Niall Macpherson)Need for assistance is calculated in the first place by reference to the scale rates and other rules for reckoning requirements and resources laid down in the National Assistance (Determination of Need) Regulations. These Regulations have all along included provision for the allowance payable to an unemployed person to be restricted by reference to his normal earnings. The answer to the second part of the Question would depend upon the particular circumstances of the cases concerned.