§ 36. Mr. BUCHANANasked the First Commissioner of Works, as representing the Secretary for Scotland, if his attention has been drawn to the high death rate among children below the age of 12 months in the Gorbals Division as against the low death rate in the Cathcart Division; will he state what is the reason for this; and what steps will he take to save child life in the Gorbals Division?
§ Sir J. BAIRDMy Noble Friend is informed that in 1921 the death rate among infants was higher in Gorbals municipal ward than in Cathcart municipal ward. It is not possible within the scope of an answer to a question to discuss the possible explanations of this difference. With regard to the last part of the question the Glasgow Corporation, assisted by a grant from public funds, have in operation a maternity service and child welfare scheme one of the objects of which is to save child life. Special attention is given under this scheme to the needs of the Gorbals Division.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that owing to the action of the State in issuing Circular 51, that scheme is largely in abeyance and that children are dying, and can he say what steps will be taken to withdraw the circular?
§ Mr. SULLIVANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Government have withdrawn the money that was being spent, and left the local authorities in a position in which they are not able to do it?
§ Sir J. BAIRDA sum of money has been withdrawn.