HC Deb 21 August 1940 vol 364 cc1296-7
43. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Minister of Information whether he will instruct the investigators, working for the social survey under his Department, to make special inquiries in selected districts of Great Britain with regard to the examinations which aged people have to undergo before the Assistance Board Appeal Tribunals when applying for supplementary old age pensions, in order to test the public feeling which has been aroused throughout the country about the hardships suffered by these old people and the ordeals they have to undergo when applying for more money to keep body and soul together?

Mr. Cooper

The matter referred to in the Question is the concern of another Government Department, and I should not take the action suggested except at that Department's request.

Mr. Kirkwood

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell me what Department is responsible, so that I may get after that Department?

Mr. Cooper

The Ministry of Health.