HC Deb 20 March 1917 vol 91 cc1700-1
3. Mr. MacVEAGH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War on what date the Committee on the Supply of Nurses presented its Report; whether he can state why it has not yet been presented to Parliament; and whether he can state if it is intended to publish it in full?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am afraid that I have nothing to add at present to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member on this subject on the 6th of this month.

Mr. MacVEAGH

Can the hon. Gentleman say when the Report of the Chairman was presented?

Mr. MACPHERSON

All that I know is that the Report is at present being considered by the Army Council, and until it is so considered I cannot say whether it will be published or not.

Mr. MacVEAGH

In view of the urgently important nature of this question, is there any reason why a Report of this importance should be held up for two months without any explanation?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I quite realise the importance of the Report, but I am sure my hon. Friend will realise that we do not wish to do anything until the Army Council have thoroughly considered it.

Mr. MacVEAGH

I am sorry to press my hon. Friend, but the question of the adequate supply of nurses for soldiers at the front is one of great importance and there is no good in postponing the matter until the War is over. This Report has been under consideration for over two months by the War Office, and what is the cause of the delay?