§ 9. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Education what was his reply to the letter from Mr. James Roberts, Salford Director of Civic Welfare, proposing that, in this and other cities, the use of school meals centres be permitted as luncheon clubs for elderly people after 1 p.m., when no longer required for school purposes, so that hot meals may be made available for old-age pensioners, particularly those living alone.
§ Mr. ChatawayMy right hon. Friend has sent to the hon. Member a copy of his reply to Mr. Roberts.
§ Mr. AllaunWhile thanking the Minister for his long and sympathetic letter, I ask whether he will now consult other Ministers concerned about sending to all local authorities a circular encouraging such luncheon clubs wherever practicable by co-operation among various council departments, especially as £45 million a year is, quite rightly, provided for children's meals but practically nothing for old people. Will the Minister consider grant aid for such meals?
§ Mr. ChatawayWhile I am sure that my right hon. Friend is willing to consider the hon. Getleman's suggestion, there are, as the hon. Gentleman knows from the letter my right hon. Friend sent him, a number of difficulties to iron out. Probably the proper way to proceed would be for the local education authority to have discussions with the bodies concerned to see whether these difficulties can be removed.
§ Dr. KingThe hon. Gentleman will be aware of the excellent work of the "meals-on-wheels" service. Will he give serious consideration to my hon. Friend's splendid suggestion that this service might have facilities in school kitchens and dining rooms, where they are available without interference with the education service?
§ Mr. ChatawayYes, Sir.