HC Deb 26 October 1916 vol 86 cc1306-7
110. Captain C. BATHURST

asked the President of the Local Government Board to what extent curative workshops are being provided in connection with. Red Cross hospitals or soldiers' convalescent homes throughout the country; and whether any attempt is being made to give agricultural or other vocational instruction to the thousands of partially-disabled soldiers in these institutions who are suffering from ennui owing to their enforced idleness, and whose injuries will prevent their returning to their former employment?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

This is one part of the general questions which is at present under consideration between the Army Council and the Statutory Committee. I can assure my hon. Friend that the Statutory Committee fully appreciate the importance of the matter to which he refers.

Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that all the work of restoring disabled soldiers to complete health is completely at a standstill owing to the inability of the Secretary of State for War to make up his mind as to whether the duty should be entrusted to the War Office or to the Statutory Committee!

Mr. HAYES FISHER

I am aware this matter is awaiting final decision by the War Office.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

May I ask whether this matter has been under his consideration for a very long time now, and that the whole work is at a standstill owing to this great delay?

Sir E. CARSON

When may we hope to have the matter settled, or is it going on for ever?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

That does not rest with the Statutory Committee; it rests with the War Office.