§ Mr. Beaneyasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what reply he has sent to local authorities who have made representations that the new rates of subsistence allowance authorised in Circular No. 21/65 are inadequate, and that he should reduce the mileage limiting payment of the allowance.
§ Mr. MacCollThe new rates of subsistence allowance referred to in circular No. 12/65, which replaced rates introduced in 1959, were agreed with the local authority associations, and my right hon. Friend has no reason to think that they are inadequate. Legislation would be required to alter the provision that subsistence allowance cannot be paid to members performing duties within three miles of their homes and this question will be looked at again when we are next considering legislation in this field. Replies on these lines are being sent to local authorities which make representations.