BEVERIDGE REPORT (GOVERNMENT'S ATTITUDE)

HC Deb 02 March 1943 vol 387 cc469-70

44. Mr. Driberg

asked the Prime Minister how soon the Government will be able to make a further statement of their attitude to the Beveridge Report?

Mr. Attlee

It is too soon for the Government to say when they will be able to make a further statement.

Mr. Driberg

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there is very deep concern and anxiety in the country and the Forces at the Government's apparent surrender to the Prudential? Will he expedite this reconsideration, in view of the promise given by the Lord President of the Council?

Mr. Shinwell

Do the Government expect to make a statement within the next few months? May we have an answer to the question? Is not this important?

Mr. Attlee

I should have thought my answer was quite adequate. I said that the Government were not prepared to make it at the moment. I cannot tie myself down to one or two months.