1. Squadron-Leader Sir GiffordFox asked the Minister of Health when it is anticipated that all houses requisitioned for use as residental nurseries to accommodate children under five evacuated under the Government Evacuation Scheme will be derequisitioned; whether any children over five are still maintained in these nurseries; and the latest date on which children were admitted under the Government Evacuation Scheme.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Aneurin Bevan)In regard to the first part of the Question, I cannot yet forecast a date. 1368 Some children over five are still in these nurseries pending other arrangements for their care. Evacuation ceased in May, 1945, but babies for whom no other provision could be made continued to be admitted to these nurseries under evacuation machinery until August, 1945.
§ Sir G. FoxHow long does the Minister think it will be necessary to have these nurseries?
§ 2. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Health why it is now impossible to de-requisition Haileywood, Shiplake, seeing that suitable alternative accommodation has been offered which would not require extensive adaptation; and what the total cost was of adapting Haileywood.
§ Mr. BevanThe alternative accommodation referred to is larger than Haileywood. It would involve considerable redecoration and protective work, and would be difficult to staff because of its situation. I am looking into the possibility of redistributing the children now at Haileywood, which cost L8o to adapt, so that the premises can be derequisitioned. I will write to the hon and gallant Member shortly.