HC Deb 21 March 1939 vol 345 cc1122-3
67. Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the resolution passed by the Joint Advisory Committee of the National Union of Teachers of England and Wales and the Educational Institute of Scotland and sent to him regarding the need for special arrangements being made for the feeding of under-nourished, pre-school children; and whether he proposes to take any action in this connection?

Mr. Bernays

I would draw the attention of the hon. Member to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to a similar question by the hon. Member for West Fife (Mr. Gallacher) on the 16th instant, of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. Mathers

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the dissatisfaction that has been expressed with the replies to similar questions, and is there no indication that the Government do realise the importance of this subject and wish to do something?

Mr. Bernays

It is a question for the local authorities. They have to take action in the matter.

Mr. Gallacher

In his reply to me the Minister said that it was a matter for the Board of Education, and has the Minister had any consultation with the Board of Education since he made that answer?

Viscountess Astor

Is it not difficult to get hold of these pre-school children to give them proper attention and is not the only way to see that they are properly nourished to extend the open-air nursery schools?

Mr. Bernays

The answer which my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. Member was that it was a question which had better be directed to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education.

Mr. Gallacher

Have you done nothing with your right hon. Friend?