HC Deb 04 December 1941 vol 376 c1254
58. Mr. Bossom

asked the Minister of Health whether he will see that the registration of new-born babies may be effected, in cases where the father is away on service and the mother cannot attend, due to serious illness, by a responsible person equipped with the necessary medical certificates, making the application so that the essential ration book may be obtained?

Mr. E. Brown

While birth registration is governed by statutory conditions which cannot and ought not to be disregarded, we recognise that unavoidable delay in birth registration must not be allowed to prejudice the mother and child in regard to essential food rationing facilities. My right hon. and Noble Friend the Minister of Food and I are in touch about the matter.

Mr. Bossom

Will my right hon. Friend do his best to see that this information is circulated quickly, as a great deal of hardship is caused in a number of cases?

Mr. Brown

We are taking action at once.