HC Deb 19 January 1943 vol 386 cc36-7
55. Mr. Parker

asked the Minister without Portfolio what steps the Government propose to take to carry out the recommendations of the Beveridge Report?

Sir W. Jowitt

I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement which I made to the House on this matter on 1st December last. Consideration of the recommendations of Sir William Beveridge is being actively pursued but no conclusions have yet been reached.

Mr. Parker

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that the great majority of people in this country expect action from the Government on this Report in the near future, and will view unfavourably any undue weight to be given to the views of the insurance companies and other bodies?

Sir W. Jowitt

Yes, Sir; there is no reason to suppose that the Government will not in the near future take whatever action they think proper.

Sir Percy Harris

Do the Government propose to introduce legislation this year to deal with the recommendations of Sir William Beveridge?

Sir W. Jowitt

I am not in a position to add to the answer I have already given.

Miss Rathbone

In considering those proposals of Sir William Beveridge do the Government consider that before they can be carried out there are prerequisites, such as family allowances?

Sir Joseph Lamb

Is it proposed to have any Debate in this House before the Government decide their attitude to the Report?