§ 58. Mr. GROVESasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that planks are still used for sleeping accommodation in numerous casual wards; and whether he will urge the various boards of guardians to abolish the use of such and provide accommodation more suitable.
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to a similar question put on the 8th April, of which I am sending hint a copy.
§ 85. Mr. R. RICHARDSONasked the Minister of Health whether he will amend the Casual Poor (Relief) Order, 1925, to that it will be obligatory on workhouse authorities to supply clean night clothing, proper sleeping accommodation, and clean bedelothing for casuals.
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIf the hon. Member will read the Order to which he refers, he will see that it provides that
Proper sleeping accommodation, bed-clothing and means of communication with a responsible officer shall be provided for the casuals and that suitable night clothing shall be supplied to them.
§ Mr. RICHARDSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the provision of proper night clothing and proper sleeping accommodation is a matter of varying difference between boards of guardians, and some of them are very lax about it?
§ Mr. RICHARDSONMy point is that orders ought to be given to boards of guardians to treat these people decently.
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe hon. Member asked me whether I will amend the Order so as to make it obligatory on workhouse authorities to supply clean night clothing, proper sleeping accommodation and clean bedclothing for casuals. I have pointed out that the Order does make that obligatory.
§ Mr. RICHARDSONI am afraid not.