§ 38. Lord Willoughby de Eresbyasked the Minister of Health what steps have been taken to give effect to the duties placed upon local authorities by Section 29 of the National Assistance Act, 1948, in the provision of welfare services for handicapped persons; and whether all local authorities have set up the necessary machinery to provide these welfare services.
§ Mr. BevanAll local authorities have machinery for discharging their duty to promote the welfare of the blind. As regards other handicapped persons, I have advised them that careful survey of needs and consultation with other bodies concerned must precede the exercise of their powers, and these steps are being taken in all areas.
§ Lord Willoughby de EresbyIn view of the fact that the term "handicapped persons" includes a large number of ex-Service men of both wars, will the Minister expedite the matter?
§ Mr. BevanYes; but while I am expediting the machinery I should like to see to it that all these various bodies are satisfied that the right things will be done when we start.