HC Deb 02 December 1926 vol 200 cc1358-9
17. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that overcrowding of casual wards is taking place in many parts of the country; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

It is impossible to avoid occasional and intermittent instances of overcrowding in casual wards. In any cases of constant and regular overcrowding pressure is applied to the guardians and the vagrancy committees to secure the necessary improvements.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it is because some guardians are enforcing the order regarding detention?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

In some cases.

Mr. RADFORD

Does the Minister not think that the most useful step to take would be to educate our people on the necessity on peace in industry?

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Arising out of the original reply, is it not the ease that part of the overcrowding is due to the fact that some boards of guardians are obeying the order with regard to two nights detention, while others are only enforcing one night's detention?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

That is the supplementary question which I have already answered.

Mr. WILLIAMS

I did not hear it.

19. Mr. SHORT

asked the Minister of Health the number of casuals relieved in England and Wales on the last Friday night in each of the quarters of the current year?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The numbers of casuals relieved in England and Wales on the last Friday night in the months of March, June, and September, 1926, were 9,416, 9,569, and 10,051, respectively.