HC Deb 29 July 1943 vol 391 cc1771-2
48. Mr. W. H. Green

asked the Minister without Portfolio what progress has been made in the preparation of legislation to carry out the Government's policy of implementing the general principles of the Beveridge Report?

The Minister without Portfolio (Sir William Jowitt)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave yesterday to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Hornsey (Captain Gammans) in regard to children's allowances. I cannot make any further statement as to the Report as a whole beyond saying that further progress has been made in working out the details of the scheme.

Mr. Green

Can the Minister say whether the progress which has been made is sufficient to enable him to indicate approximately when legislation is likely to be introduced dealing with any phase of the Beveridge Report?

Sir W. Jowitt

As I explained yesterday, I am not able to say at the moment.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not possible for the Minister to present an interim report to the House to give Members some indication of the progress which has been made in the study of the Beveridge Report?

Sir W. Jowitt

That matter will certainly be considered.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the Minister mean that he intends to consider the request I have made to him, or will he give a firm reply?

Sir W. Jowitt

I cannot give a firm reply now; I will consider the request of my hon. Friend.

Mr. George Griffiths

Can the Minister give us any information as to when parents are to get the five shillings promised them by the Chancellor of the Exchequer? They are waiting for it.