HC Deb 11 April 1940 vol 359 cc708-9
68. Mr. James Hall

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the failure of parents to register their children for evacuation and the increase in the number of children returning to evacuation areas is largely due to the difficulties experienced by parents when desiring to visit their children; and will he take steps to minimise the transport difficulties which in many cases could be obviated?

Mr. Elliot

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative, and my information is that the rate of return of evacuated children has generally decreased in recent months. If the hon. Member will be good enough to send me particulars of any cases in which parents wishing to visit evacuated children have encountered transport difficulties, I shall be happy to consider the matter, in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.

Mr. Hall

I shall be pleased to send such information to the right hon. Gentleman. Is he aware that arrangements which have been made for parents to visit their children have been interfered with, with the result that a number of children have been brought back to London?

Mr. Elliot

I do not think that the arrangements have been interfered with, but I shall be glad to receive any particulars.

Mr. Davidson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are no facilities, cheap fares or anything else, for Scottish parents wishing to visit their children?

Mr. Elliot

There are such facilities in Scotland, but in Glasgow it was not found possible for the local authorities to take advantage of them.