HC Deb 09 July 1936 vol 314 cc1366-8
4. Mr. DALTON

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has now made arrangements for the provision of meals at the junior instruction centre at Bishop Auckland or at any other junior instruction centres?

Mr. E. BROWN

No, Sir. As stated by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary in reply to a question on 9th June, I have asked the National Advisory Councils for Juvenile Employment to review the system of authorised courses, and I anticipate that the councils will include in their deliberations the question of the provision of meals in junior instruction centres. Meantime I am not in a position to take action in the matter.

Mr. DALTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, as long ago as last December, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry told me, in reply to a question, that this matter was under active consideration? In view of the fact that the Commissioner for the Special Areas has commented on the deteriorated condition of those joining these centres, as a result of under-nourishment and disease, and that the local medical officer has also made a report to the same effect, may I ask how long this deterioration and disease is to be allowed to continue?

Mr. TINKER

As this matter has been referred to on many occasions, and the Minister has promised several times to give us a report on it, cannot he make an attempt to do so?

5. Mr. DALTON

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has taken any steps, otherwise than by the provision of meals, to improve the physical condition of juveniles attending junior instruction centres?

Mr. BROWN

Yes, Sir. I have been able to announce to local education authorities in England and Wales an amendment to the statutory scheme governing the provision of medical services for juveniles attending authorised courses. The amended scheme enables the education authority to arrange for the medical inspection of all juveniles in attendance and the provision of medical and dental treatment where necessary. I propose in the near future to issue to local education authorities a comprehensive memorandum on the provision of medical services for juveniles attending authorised courses.

Mr. DALTON

Does the Minister realise that this is a very urgent matter indeed, and has dragged on for many months? Is the right hon. Gentleman actively pursuing it at the present moment?

Mr. BROWN

I think my answer indicates that I am.