§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLEasked the Minister of Health what was the birth-rate per thousand 30 years ago, 20 years ago, 10 years ago and in 1934, or the most recent date available; and, at this rate of recession or progression, what will be the population 30 years hence?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)In reply to the first part of the question, the birth-rates per 1,000 population in England and Wales were, for 1904, 28.0; for 1914, 23.8; for 1924, 18.8; and for 1934, 14.8, the last figure being provisional. As regards the second part of the question, my right hon. Friend is afraid that no forecast of future population could possibly be made in the manner suggested.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLECan the hon. Gentleman say whether the Government have any proper appreciation of how serious this drop in the birth-rate is?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREI am unable to reply to that big question at Question Time.
Viscountess ASTORIs it not true, that, in spite of the Government's efforts in Italy, coupled with the help of the Pope, the birth-rate has gone down in Italy?