§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services in what circumstances associated with a local authority being unable to discharge statutory responsibilities by reason of lack of financial resources, he does not exercise the default powers given to him by section 36 of the National Assistance Act 1948.
§ Mrs. ChalkerMy right hon. Friend will continue to consider on their individual merits all applications made to him for exercise of these powers, but it is impossible to indicate what action might be taken in hypothetical circumstances.