§ 23. Rear-Admiral Beamishasked the Minister of Health whether he has any intention of altering the particulars to be stated in the Census returns, in order to provide more information as to the composition and origins of the population; and what opportunity will be provided for Members to propose such alterations?
25. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Health whether it is his intention to restore, in the 1941 Census, two questions omitted in the 1931 Census, namely, the declaration of birthplace and of the place of work; whether he is aware that information as to the place of work is essential for the economic development of transport facilities; and whether he will, in general, guarantee that false economy shall not be allowed to jeopardise the value of the next Census, and how far preparations for the 1941 Census are now advanced?
§ Mr. ElliotThe programme of inquiries to be included in a Decennial Census is reconsidered on each occasion and finally decided after a review of ail the proposals which have been put forward. While executive preparations are now being made for the 1941 Census enumeration, the settlement of the Census inquiries has not as yet been undertaken, since experience suggests that it is preferably carried out at a time somewhat closer to the actual Census date. The suggestions contained in the questions and any others which I may receive from hon. Members will be noted for consideration. Inquiries as to both birthplace and nationality were included in the 1931 Census.
§ Mr. BarrWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that it is an established custom in this country that no sectarian or denominational questions should be put in the Census, as is done in certain other countries?
§ Mr. ElliotYes, Sir.
Mr. AdamsWill the right hon. Gentleman answers the last part of my question, as to how far the preparations are advanced for the next Census?
§ Mr. ElliotThe executive preparations are considerably advanced, but the actual question of the 1941 Census paper has not yet been taken into consideration.
§ Mr. ElliotIt is desirable that the executive arrangements should be advanced so that, if necessary, the Census could be taken before 1941.
§ 43. Mr. Dayasked the Minister of Health what instructions have been issued to the various officers of municipal authorities asking them to make the necessary preparations for an early Census of the population?
§ Mr. ElliotOfficers of local authorities have been asked to take charge locally of the arrangements now being made for the recruitment of enumerators for the 1941 Census.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this is intended to form a basis for compulsory national service?
§ Mr. ElliotNo, Sir.