HC Deb 17 February 1938 vol 331 c2064
59. Mr. Thorne

asked the Home Secretary how many babies were abandoned in different parts of London during the past 12 months; to what institutions they were sent; how long they are kept in the institutions; how they are educated after five years of age; and where are they sent after school-leaving age?

Sir S. Hoare

As regards the first part of the question, I am informed by the Commissioner of Police that during 1937 the number of children under six years of age reported abandoned in the Metropolitan Police District was 46 boys and 14 girls. Of these, 36 of the boys and 13 of the girls were under the age of two. As regards the second, third and last parts of the question, the hon. Member should address his inquiry to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, and as regards the fourth part to my Noble Friend the President of the Board of Education.

Mr. Leach

Will the right hon. Gentleman try to induce the Minister of Health to abandon the baby which he introduced on Tuesday of this week?