§ 19. Mr. Edward Evansasked the Minister of Health whether it is his intention to appoint an advisory committee in connection with the welfare services for physically handicapped persons provided for in the National Assistance Act, 1948; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BevanYes, Sir. I told local authorities of my intention in a recent circular, and I shall shortly be taking the necessary action.
§ Mr. EvansDoes that mean that the Minister proposes to set up an advisory committee on a representative basis of the various interests concerned with certain types of handicapped people; and will they be able to call on specialist advice by co-option?
§ Mr. BevanIt would, of course, be my action to consult representative bodies. But these advisory committees are not representative committees; they are conferences; they are the appropriate advisory committees under the Act; but everybody concerned in the matter will be given an opportunity of putting forward names.