HC Deb 26 March 1934 vol 287 cc1761-2
Mr. HUDSON

I beg to move, in page 47, line 31, at the end, to insert: 'In the prescribed manner' means in such manner as may be prescribed by rules made under this Part of this Act. This is a purely drafting Amendment.

Amendment agreed to.

10.20 p.m.

Sir CYRIL COBB

I beg to move, in page 48, line 8, at the end, to insert: 'Training courses' in relation to such courses provided and maintained by local authorities includes courses at residential training colonies. The purpose of this Amendment is to get a definition of training courses inserted in this definition Clause. Clause 36 deals with the provision and maintenance of training courses, and gives power to the Unemployment Assistance Board to contribute towards the cost of such training courses which are provided by local authorities. In view of the fact that some local authorities have residential training centres it ought to be made quite clear whether or not a training course will include a training centre of a residential character, as distinct from one where courses of instruction are given only from day to day.

Mr. HUDSON

We have on purpose omitted any definition of a training course in order to leave the board as wide authority and discretion as possible. If the board, after investigating the particular residential training centres of a local authority, are satisfied that they ought to be treated as training courses, the board will be able under the Bill so to treat them, after having come to the necessary financial arrangement with the local authority. We are particularly anxious not to limit the powers of the board in any way. That is why we have inserted no definition of training courses in the Bill. After that explanation I hope that my hon. Friend will see fit to withdraw his Amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause, as amended, stand part of the Bill."

10.22 p.m.

Mr. RHYS DAVIS

Will the Minister be good enough to look at the words at the top of page 48? 'Medical needs' means the need of medical or surgical assistance, including any need of drugs, medical or surgical appliances or of nursing or similar services: Apart from "nursing or similar services" all these provisions come under the National Health Insurance Act in respect of all persons who are insured under that Act. I am wondering whether there is any connection at all between these words and the same provisions in the National Health Insurance scheme.

Mr. HUDSON

No, not as far as I know, but it is not a point that has been brought to my attention. I shall certainly look into it and communicate with the hon. Gentleman before the Report stage.