§ 83. Mr. E. L. Mallalieuasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance why the new National Assistance order books only cover the period to the end of February instead of, as formerly, to the end of November.
§ Mr. MarplesThe National Assistance Board issues assistance books covering various periods according to the circumstances of individuals but never for as long as 12 months.
§ 85. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he is aware that the Assistance Board at Cardiff has insisted on one of its officers accompanying a recipient of 84W a grant for clothing when the purchase was being made; and what are his regulations with regard to the circumstances and conditions under which specific grants may be spent.
§ Mr. MarplesThere are no regulations on this point, but the National Assistance Board expects its officers to be as helpful as possible in these as in all other matters. If the hon. Member has any particular case in mind the Board will be glad to inquire into the circumstances if he will let me have the necessary details.
§ 86. Mr. Owenasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance how many people in Ashington and Morpeth were receiving National Assistance grants at the latest convenient date; and how this compares with a similar date in 1951.
§ Mr. MarplesThe National Assistance Board regrets that the information asked for is not available as the towns of Ashington and Morpeth are part of a much larger area covered by an office at Ashington.