HC Deb 15 May 1918 vol 106 cc360-1
61. Mr. RENDALL

asked the Minister of Reconstruction whether the endowment of maternity which is practically now provided for numbers of mothers by reason of separation and dependants' allowances paid to soldiers' wives has called his attention to the consequential advantages to such mothers and their offspring; and whether, having regard to the cessation of these payments on the termination of war and the then greater need on grounds of health and the economic desirability of not forcing married women into the labour market, he proposes to appoint a Committee to consider and report upon this matter?

Mr. D. WARD

The problems referred to in the question have for a con- siderable time been engaging my attention with a view to the formulation of practical proposals. At the present stage I do not think that my hon. Friend's suggestion would be the best means of securing further progress.