§ Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the decision and representations of Scottish local authorities in support of a demand that a refund should be allowed in respect of expenditure on poor relief, as in the fields of health, education, police and other services; and whether any action will be taken by the Government on the line suggested?
§ Mr. ColvilleAs the right hon. Gentleman will be aware, the expenditure of local authorities on public assistance is part of the rate-borne expenditure towards which the block grant is paid, and any proposal that the State should make a direct contribution.in respect of expenditure on poor relief would necessitate a review of the existing grant arrangements. Certain local authorities made representations to me on this subject earlier in the year and were informed on 20th April last that I was unable at present to agree to an alteration in the arrangements governing the State's contributions towards local expenditure.