§ 69. Mr. JOELasked the Minister of Health whether he will consider suggesting to local authorities the examination of the number of playing fields in their respective areas with the object of ascertaining their adequacy and, in case of need, ensuring their increase?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEARERapid progress is already being made in the improvement of the provision of playing fields in this country, and my right hon. Friend does not think that in these circumstances the course suggested is necessary.
Viscountess ASTORSeeing that even now there are great areas where there will be no playing-fields unless the Government take action, does the hon. Member not think that it is time that the Government had a policy in regard to playing-fields as well as in regard to sugar-beet and other things?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThe Noble Lady will appreciate that it is part of the duty of the local authority to take this question into consideration in drawing up their plans. Last year we had a record in the number of playing-fields provided by local authorities.
Viscountess ASTORYes, but seeing that some local authorities are not doing anything, are the Government going to allow these housing estates to be developed with no provision for the children in regard to playing facilities, and does the hon. Member not think that unless the Government take steps nationally there will be no adequate provisions?
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEIs the Minister aware that there has been a considerable amount of popular indignation over this question, owing to the fact that nothing has been done?