HC Deb 19 October 1939 vol 352 c1040
49. Mr. Poole

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the case of an expectant mother in Armitage, Staffordshire, whose husband has joined the Army, and who is now left with only 9s. for food and all other necessities after paying rent and insurance; whether he is aware that the Staffordshire County Council have refused an application for public assistance; and what action he is prepared to take in the matter?

Mr. Elliot

My attention has been drawn to this case by the hon. Member, and I am at once making inquiries.

Mr. Poole

If the inquiries reveal the truth of the statement contained in the question, does the right hon. Gentleman realise that the facts there disclosed reveal the deplorable and inhuman treatment of the dependant of a serving soldier, and will he make the strongest possible representations to the local authority?

Mr. Elliot

I am making investigations, and I am afraid I cannot beforehand say what the result of those investigations will show.