An End of the Means Test Grievance
Henceforward it may be hoped that the long-standing and bitter controversy in regard to the Means Test as applied to applicants for relief may be swept out of politics. Last Tuesday Mr. Bevin moved the approval of the new Regulations in accordance with the provisions of the Determination of Needs Act. The old inquisitorial methods of assessing means which Were so resented by the working-classes are now abolished and simple tests of personal needs are substituted. The promises of the Prime Minister last November were implemented in the Bill which was introduced into Parliament last February. The applicant for relief will make a statement about the means a himself, his wife and dependants. The old rule of aggregat- ing the resources of the whole household, including non- dependent members, disappears, and the earnings of sons or daughters living at home will be entirely disregarded unless in excess of 20S. weekly, and above that sum will be considered as representing a maximum of ys. The calculations in regard to an applicant who lives as a member of a relative's household are also subject to simple rules. New savings in War Savings Certificates up to £375 will not be included in calculation of means. The advantage of the new system is, as Mr. Bevin Pointed out, that it minimises investigation and intimate per- srlIal inquiries. The new scheme represents an agreement by consent. It does not abolish the reasonable condition that !leans should be taken into account before assistance is given, but it makes the assessment subject to rules which are both iiinple and equitable.
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