§ 40. Mr. Carmichaelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now submit a comprehensive report on the progress being made by the local authorities in Scotland to provide residential accommodation for persons who, by reason of age, infirmity or any other circumstances are in need of care and attention; and if he will give an assurance that all local authorities are taking measures to meet their obligations to old people as directed under the National Assistance Act, 1948, Part III.
§ Miss HerbisonAn account of the progress made in providing residential accommodation under the National Assistance Act is contained in the Annual Report for 1949 of the Department of Health for Scotland. Since the passing of the Act, local authorities have opened six homes, 21 others have been acquired and are at various stages of preparation, while the acquisition of 16 others is being considered. My officers are in constant 1059 touch with the local authorities on this matter and I think that the authorities generally are alive to their obligations.