HC Deb 13 March 1945 vol 409 cc16-7
36. Mrs. Hardie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that there is sufficient inspection in Scotland of boarded-out children and children in orphanages and other institutions to ensure that they are properly cared for.

Mr. Westwood

I would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Shettleston (Mr. McGovern) on 7th March, when he stated that he hopes to announce shortly the personnel of a committee to consider the position of children who are deprived of normal home life.

Mrs. Hardie

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, which is quite satisfactory, may I ask him if he will consider asking the local authorities to invite the teachers to call attention to any cases that arise amongst school children?

Mr. Westwood

I shall draw the attention of my right hon. Friend to the suggestion made by the hon. Lady.

Mr. McKinlay

Is the implication of appointing still another committee, that adequate machinery does not already exist in Scotland for dealing with this problem?

Mr. Westwood

The implication is that England has set up a committee, and that it was promised to this House that we would set up a similar committee in Scotland, to inquire into this matter.

Mr. McKinlay

Why set up a committee in Scotland, to inquire into something that does not exist, because England has set up one?