§ 40. Mr. N. CHAMBERLAINasked the Home Secretary whether he has considered the recommendations of the Departmental Committee on Child Adoption, presided over by Sir Alfred Hopkinson, K.C.; and whether he proposes to introduce any legislation upon the subject in the course of the present Session?
§ Mr. SHORTTI hope a Bill may be introduced to give effect to the Committee's recommendation as to the legitimation of children by the subsequent marriage of their parents; but there appear to be very great difficulties in the way of carrying out the proposal for the legalisation of adoption.
§ Mr. N. CHAMBERLAINWhat are the difficulties?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe difficulties are of a very complicated nature, and they can hardly be given in reply to a supplementary question.
§ Viscountess ASTORIs it not true that in other countries where it has been tried it has been a great success?
§ Mr. SHORTTI think that is so generally, and I hope that eventually it may be tried here. I shall be very glad if Members interested would discuss it with me.