HC Deb 15 April 1937 vol 322 cc1154-5
17. Mr. George Hall

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has now considered the report from the National Advisory Council for Juvenile Employment for England and Wales on the provision of meals for juveniles in attendance at junior instruction centres; and what steps he proposes to take to give effect to the recommendations of the committee?

Mr. E. Brown

The report referred to by the hon. Member is receiving immediate attention, and a decision will be announced as soon as possible.

Mr. Hall

Is it not the case that this matter has been before the Minister for the last five weeks, that prior to that it was considered by a committee 12 months ago, and that it was brought to the notice of the Minister as far back as two years ago, but nothing has been done? May I express the hope that the Minister will now give it his immediate attention?

Mr. Brown

I have already informed the hon. Gentleman that I am doing that, but there is quite a number of other things to which I have to have regard.

Mr. Hall

When will the right hon. Gentleman announce the decision at which he and the Government have arrived?

Mr. Brown

As soon as it is reached.

Mr. Hall

When will that be?

Mr. Brown

I cannot say.

20. Mr. Leonard

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has yet received the reports from the National Advisory Council for Scotland on juvenile instruction centres; what recommendations those reports make with regard to the provision of milk and meals for juveniles in attend- ance at these centres; and what steps he proposes to take to give effect to the recommendations?

Mr. Brown

I have recently received an interim report from the National Advisory Council for Juvenile Employment (Scotland) on the provision of meals in junior instruction centres. I expect to have the final report of the council shortly. The two reports will be published as soon as possible after the final report is received. The recommendations of the interim report are receiving immediate attention, and a decision will be announced as soon as possible.

Mr. Leonard

Is it not desirable that there should be some finality in regard to this matter?

Mr. Brown

I would not like to be drawn into a debate as to what finality means.