§ Mr. HARRISasked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, whether, in the legislation foreshadowed for next Session dealing with out-door relief in London, he will consider making the relief granted to unemployed men and their families a national instead of a local charge?
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§ Sir M. BARLOWMy right hon. Friend does not think it would be practicable to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion.
§ Mr. BIRCHALLasked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, what was the amount spent on out-relief by the Poor Law authorities in 1913 and in 1921, respectively; and can he give any estimate of the amount likely to be so spent in 1922?
§ Sir M. BARLOWThe amount spent on out-relief in money or kind by Poor Law Authorities in England and Wales in the year ended 31st March, 1914, was £2,421,689. The corresponding amount for the year ended 31st March, 1922, is estimated to have been £13,500,000. The amount spent in the half-year ended 30th September, 1922, was £9,482,000.