HC Deb 24 April 1941 vol 371 c249
35. Mr. Graham White

asked the Minister of Health whether he can make any statement with regard to the use of casual wards at the present time; and, in particular, whether he has any information as to the extent to which they are being used by able-bodied persons for the purpose of avoiding liability for military and National Service?

The Minister of Health (Mr. Ernest Brown)

A few complaints have been made by Joint Vagrancy Committees, and my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service is taking action with the collaboration of my Department to check this abuse.

Mr. White

Is the Minister aware that there is some feeling about this in some parts of the country? Will he make a statement without delay?

Mr. Brown

I will do it as soon as I have evidence. Only a few cases have been brought to my notice.