HC Deb 10 October 1940 vol 365 c476
29. Mr. Rhys Davies (for Mr. Ammon)

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider opening hostels outside London and other big cities for the accommodation of elderly people of small means who have no friends and relatives with whom they can seek refuge?

Mr. M. MacDonald

I have already made arrangements for the old and infirm in the food and rest centres and in the shelters in London who are willing to be moved to be taken into homes which are being specially established for them in the outer suburbs or into hospitals in the provinces.

Mr. Davies

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this is not now a peculiarly London problem and that other towns have been affected?

Mr. MacDonald

We shall give priority to the most urgent cases. The available accommodation in the reception areas is still somewhat limited.