HC Deb 10 May 1928 vol 217 cc394-5
15. Mr. BATEY

asked the President of the Board of Education whether as a result of his recent visit to Durham, any report will be issued as to the objects and conclusions of his visit?

Lord E. PERCY

No, Sir.

Mr. BATEY

Has not the Minister been in Durham at the request of the Prime Minister to inquire into the con- dition of the wives and children of the miners there; and are we not entitled to a report?

Lord E. PERCY

No, Sir. I promised the House the other day that I would pay personal attention to and keep a personal eye on the conditions in the distressed mining areas. That I am doing, but if I am asked to publish a report every time I go for two days to a distressed area, I do not think it will serve any very useful purpose.

Mr. MARCH

Is the Noble Lord satisfied with the conditions which are now prevailing among the children there?

Lord E. PERCY

No. Of course I am not satisfied with the conditions prevailing among the children in any distressed area—no one could be.

Mr. PALING

If the Noble Lord is not satisfied with the conditions, is he going to recommend any remedial measures being taken immediately?