HC Deb 05 March 1942 vol 378 cc788-9
25. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of uncertainty and delay in some areas respecting the provision of war-time day nurseries, and that whilst certain local authorities have lists of children and have made preliminary arrangements, no provision has yet been authorised; and whether, in particular, steps are now being taken to facilitate the provision of these nurseries in Leyton?

Mr. E. Brown

My Regional officers after consultation with the Ministry of Labour are taking all possible steps to have nurseries established where they are advised that this provision is needed. If my hon. Friend will send me particulars of any district where this is not the case, I shall be glad to have inquiry made. As regards Leyton, I am informed that two nurseries for 60 children have been approved.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in regard to Leyton at least two nursery schools have been approved, and that in a circular or letter from his Department, it is suggested that these schools are unnecessary, and in the light of this contradiction will he make inquiries?

Mr. Brown

I do not think that that can be so, but I shall be very glad to receive the information and look into it. The fact is that the sites approved are at Knotts Green and Ellingham Road. The nurseries will be in huts. The Knotts Green hut has been delivered. The other has been ordered, but the authorities are not yet able to accept delivery because, I understand, the site, which has been bombed, has to be cleared, and that work is going forward.

Dr. Edith Summerskill

What action is taken in cases where local authorities refuse to provide nurseries?

Mr. Brown

The answer is that my hon. and learned Friend the Member for North Croydon (Mr. Willink) is in touch with the local authorities on all the problems involved.