§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware that a number of local councils run, and assist in running, luncheon clubs for retirement pensioners, supplying meals at reasonable prices which are subsidised from the local rates; and whether, to encourage this type of activity, he will seek to give a grant to such local authorities of 6d. per meal so supplied to be passed on in reduced prices to these pensioners.
§ Dr. John DunwoodyI am aware that the provision of meals makes a valuable contribution to the welfare of the elderly, and arrangements of this kind are constantly expanding. The expenditure involved attracts rate support grant, and in my view this is the way to provide Exchequer assistance.