§ 32. Mr. LUNNasked the Minister of Health what action is being taken by his Department to see that a fully qualified midwife is at hand for every expectant mother in the country?
§ Sir K. WOODEach local supervising authority has been sent a circular, explaining the provisions of the Act and containing suggestions and advice as to how the objects of the Act can best be secured. I will send the hon. Member a copy of the circular. Under the Act, local authorities are required to submit their proposals to me by the end of January next, and to carry them into effect not later than the end of July next.
§ 33. Mr. LUNNasked the Minister of Health whether local authorities and voluntary associations have been invited to co-operate in implementing the Midwives Act; and how far definite action is being undertaken by them?
§ Sir K. WOODThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Consultations between the bodies referred to, as the Act requires, are, I am informed, now in progress throughout the country.
Mr. RATHBONEIs the Minister's Department giving as much encouragement as possible to these local and voluntary associations, which are professing themselves willing to co-operate in the working of the Act?
§ Sir K. WOODYes, Sir. I am glad to say that many of them are in touch with us.
§ Sir JOHN MELLORWill the Minister give favourable consideration to the applications of those non-county boroughs which are qualified and desire to be entrusted with the administration of their own maternity services?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is another matter.