§ Mr. H. JONESasked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the memorandum sent to him on the position of rural and semi-rural counties in the matter of Exchequer grants; and whether he is in a position to give his decision on the recommendations set out therein regarding a reconsideration of the formula governing such grants?
Sir H. YOUNGI have received the memorandum referred to by the hon. Member, and will give it consideration. I am unable at present to give any decision, Since, as pointed out in my statement to the House on 12th April, the question of the block grant arrangements1282W must be considered in relation to the policy of the Government in regard to the relief of the able-bodied unemployed.