HC Deb 15 November 1928 vol 222 cc1074-5
34. Mr. BRIANT

asked the Minister of Health whether he has received any reports as to the conditions of hop pickers in the recent season; if so, what is the nature of such reports; and, if his Department has no power to deal with insanitary or otherwise unsatisfactory conditions, will he introduce a measure to obtain such necessary powers for his Ministry or some central authority?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Yes, Sir. I have received certain reports on this matter, and on the whole they show that satisfactory progress is being made by the district councils, who are the responsible authorities, in securing the maintenance of a proper standard of accommodation. I do not think it necessary or desirable to contemplate the inroad upon the sphere of local government which would be involved by transferring this responsibility to a central authority.

Mr. BRIANT

Are these reports available for Members of the House or the public generally?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I should like notice of that question.