As regards the first part of the question, I would refer the right hon. Member to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Treasury during the course of the Debate on 23rd November. As regards the second part, while I am con- sidering the general representations on the subject of public assistance expenditure made to me at a recent meeting with representatives of Scottish public assistance authorities, the right hon. Gentleman will appreciate that acceptance of these proposals would involve a wide departure from existing policy.