§ 72. Mr. Messerasked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the report of the situation of the evacuees at Leighton Buzzard; whether he can state the number of boys who are to be turned out because the people cannot afford to keep them; and whether he is considering any increase in the billeting allowance?
§ Mr. ElliotThe only report which has been brought to my notice is the news- 396 paper cutting sent to me by the hon. Member, but I am causing further inquiries to be made.
§ 73. Mr. Messerasked the Minister of Health whether billets have now been found for all evacuees sent to Woking or if compulsory powers are to be used; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to ensure that evacuees will not suffer by compulsory billeting?
§ 74. Dr. Summerskillasked the Minister of Health whether Woking is the only local authority which has been informed that unless it immediately finds billets for evacuees the Government will take steps to compel householders to comply with the evacuation order?
§ Mr. ElliotThere appears to be some misapprehension as to the communication made to the urban district council. This was a suggestion that if the billets required for children could not be obtained by the usual procedure within a limited time, it would be necessary for the council to consider resorting to their compulsory powers. I understand that the council expect that it will be necessary to take this course and that arrangements will be made for increased supervision by voluntary welfare workers in all cases in which children are compulsorily billeted.
§ Mr. MesserWill the Minister deal with the latter part of my Question?
§ Mr. ElliotI have dealt with it.