68. Mr. Haslamasked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the resolution passed unanimously by the Federation of Women's Institutes of England and Wales at their recent annual meeting, in London, in which they ask that further facilities should be provided 586 for the registration of births and deaths in rural areas; and whether he will bear the terms of this resolution in mind in considering new schemes for the registration of births and deaths put forward by county councils, especially in the case of those schemes which entail a reduction of existing facilities?
§ Mr. ElliotI am aware of the terms of the resolution referred to. The question of facilities is, however, one which can only be considered in relation to the particular conditions of particular localities. I am sure that county councils will pay full regard to the needs of all parts of their respective areas in the preparation of their schemes. As my hon. Friend will appreciate, any outstanding local representations are considered before approval is given to such schemes.