45. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that all parties in the last Parliament agreed that immediate legislation was required for the revision and reform of the Poor Law system, he will state what steps he intends to take to meet the unanimous desire of the last Parliament?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)I have been asked to reply. The question of Poor Law reform is being closely considered by the Government with a view to the discussion with and ultimate circulation to local 234 authorities, boards of guardians and others interested of a draft Bill following the procedure adopted in the case of the Rating and Valuation Bill.
Mr. THOMSONIs the Bill likely to be introduced this year, following on what the hon. Gentleman has said?
§ Sir K. WOODI can say that satisfactory progress is being made, but I cannot name a date when the Bill will be introduced.