§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the restrictions that the Family Fund has now introduced on the grants it makes, and on the falling value of the grants awarded.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI am not aware of any new restriction operated by the fund other than the substitution of grants for car hire in cases where, formerly, a second-hand car would have been purchased. The fund is continuing to give help in cases where this will complement the help given by the statutory bodies. I am satisfied that the original objectives of the fund have not changed, though the fact that it now operates within a budget means that it has to scrutinise applications carefully.