HC Deb 27 March 1947 vol 435 cc1373-4
23. Sir Stanley Reed

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the disclosures in the report of a survey of charitable trusts in Great Britain providing funds for the accommodation, care and comfort of old people, published by the Nuffield Foundation, he proposes to set up an ad hoc committee to complete this inquiry and to make recommendations for the better use of these resources.

Mr. J. Edwards

My right hon. Friend is proposing to discuss this matter with the Charity Commissioners in connection with the proposed National Assistance Bill.

Sir S. Reed

Will the Minister treat this matter as urgent in view of the increase in the expectation of life and the necessity of putting these resources to better use in order to provide amenities for aged and ageing people?

Mr. Edwards

I quite appreciate the importance of the subject

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are many old charities—I am chairman of one myself—which operate under old deeds and need very little alteration to bring them up to date; and will he make the scope of the inquiry as wide as possible?

Mr. Edwards

I would not like to prejudge. The matter is before the Charity Commissioners.