HC Deb 13 November 1930 vol 244 cc1856-7
83. Mr. SHEPHERD

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to recent acts of insubordination on the part of casuals as a means of protest against the length of time during which they are locked in cells without light; and whether he is considering taking action to put an end to this practice?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The answer to the first part of my hon. Friend's question is in the negative, but I am taking certain special steps to keep in touch with the position in casual wards generally and I shall certainly make representations to the responsible authorities in any case in which the conditions mentioned by my hon. Friend are found to exist.

Mr. SHEPHERD

Where casual wards are locked, will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to see that casuals have access to the day room until a reasonable hour for going to bed?

Mr. GREENWOOD

If the hon. Member will give me actual cases I will certainly do my best to see that the point is covered.

Mr. SHEPHERD

In view of the fact that most casual ward cells are locked, could he not move by means of a circular to this effect?

Mr. GREENWOOD

As I have already said, I have issued a general circular.

Mr. MUGGERIDGE

Cannot we have a reply as to what particular offence against the law a casual has committed that he should be in prison?

Mr. GREENWOOD

None.