HC Deb 17 November 1920 vol 134 c1882
64. Mr. CLOUGH

asked the Minister of Health whether he. can supply the House with any figures showing the number of ex-service men who have been admitted to the casual wards of the workhouses of the country in each month of the present year; and whether any instructions have been issued to boards of guardians to treat these men as sympathetically as possible?

Dr. ADDIS0N

I am afraid I have not this information. I am sending the hon. Member copies of the circular letters issued in this connection.

Mr. CLOUGH

Will the right hon. Gentleman forthwith issue instructions to all boards of guardians that every ex-service man who is so unfortunate as to be compelled to ask for temporary help from Poor Law authorities shall receive the most sympathetic and generous treatment?

Mr. SEXTON

May I ask whether, in the opinion of the right hon. Gentleman, workhouses, with a pauper taint attached, are fit places for heroes to live in?

Dr. ADDISON

It is very lamentable if there are any cases of that kind. I think that the circulars to which I have referred will answer the question of my hon. Friend (Mr. Clough).