§ 27. Mr. Toucheasked the Minister of Health whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the amount of billeting allowance paid to householders in respect of unaccompanied schoolchildren.
§ Mr. WillinkI regret that I can at present add nothing to my reply to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Darwen (Captain Prescott) on 9th March, a copy of which I am sending to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. ToucheDoes my right hon. and learned Friend appreciate that this form of billeting allowance compares very unfavourably with any other form of billeting allowance, and that it imposes the maximum burden on the householder?
§ Mr. WillinkAs I said on 9th March, we are very grateful to these people who are taking care of the women, children 383 and others; and, as I said only a week ago, this matter is at present under consideration.
BellengerWhat is delaying the Government's decision on this matter, which has been before them quite a long time? Will my right hon. and learned Friend answer?
§ Mr. WillinkIn any matter of this kind a number of factors have to be considered. This matter is under active consideration, and I hope to be able to make a statement shortly.