§ Mr. PERCY HARRIS (Leicester, Harborough)asked the Secretary to the Local Government Board how many applications for assistance in the payment of rent have been received under the Military Service (Civil Liabilities) Committee; how many of these claims have been complied with; what moneys have been paid away or guaranteed under this scheme; whether he is aware that a circular has been sent to many applicants directing them to apply to charitable organisations for assistance; and if this circular has his sanction?
§ Mr. HAYES FISHERThe number of applications received up to 15th July, including applications still under investigation by the Commissioners, was 52,137. Grants have been allotted in 11,833 cases, and the aggregate amount of these grants represents an annual payment of £190,648. No such circular as is suggested has been issued, but in cases in which no grant can be given under the Civil Liabilities Scheme the applicants are referred to the Local War Pensions Committee or to the Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association who are acting temporarily as agents for the Statutory Committee in districts where the local committees have not yet been formed. In both cases the grants are made out of public funds and not from charitable sources.