§ 21. Mr. Stanley Prescottasked the Minister of National Insurance what discussions she has had with the Minister of Health regarding the erection by local authorities of special housing accommodation for the aged.
§ Dr. SummerskillI am constantly in touch on matters of common interest with my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Health. But I do not think there is any need for me to make special representations to him about a matter of the importance of which he is fully seized.
§ Mr. PrescottAs presumably both the right hon. Lady and the Minister of Health have the interests of the old age pensioners at heart, would it not be of benefit to institute such discussions?
§ Dr. SummerskillI would remind the hon. Member that the powers which my right hon. Friend exercises, and to which I referred, are conferred by Part III of the National Assistance Act, and concern the administration of the local authorities. Therefore, the matter does not come within my province.