HC Deb 30 November 1926 vol 200 cc1007-8
42. Colonel DAY

asked the Minister of Health what action has been taken by his Department with a view to abolishing uniform for inmates of Poor Law institutions in favour of ordinary clothing?

Sir K. WOOD

There is no law or rule requiring the clothing supplied by guardians to inmates of Poor Law institutions to be uniform, and the attention of the guardians has, from time to time, been drawn to the absence of need for uniformity, either in colour or material, in the clothing provided for the inmates of the institutions. They have been advised that clothing of inmates absent on leave from the workhouse should not he in any way distinctive or conspicuous in character.

Colonel DAY

Would the hon. Gentleman say whether any of the Poor Law institutions have allowed the inmates to wear their own dress?

Sir K. WOOD

The hon. Member had better give me notice of that question.

Colonel DAY

Is it not a fact that Luton has already allowed the inmates to wear their own suits or dresses?

Sir K. WOOD

If the hon. Gentleman says so, I am prepared to accept the statement.

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that other institutions which are maintained by public subscription, such as the Quarriews Homes in Scotland, provide ordinary clothing?

Sir K. WOOD

I cannot answer any question relating to Scotland.