HC Deb 19 June 1952 vol 502 cc1544-5
5. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Health what decision has now been reached in respect to the 10 remaining day nurseries in Kent.

9. Mr. Bottomley

asked the Minister of Health when he is going to reach a final decision to keep open the 10 day nurseries in Kent.

Mr. Iain Macleod

No final decisions have yet been reached and I am informed that the matter is being further considered by the county council at their meeting today.

Mr. Dodds

Does the right hon. Gentleman deny that he has given some guidance to the Kent County Council by suggesting an arbitrary reduction of half of these remaining day nurseries? If so, will he bear in mind that, owing to the strict conditions of entry, each case is one in which there will be great human misery and that many will go on to National Assistance if this is carried out?

Mr. Macleod

I have dealt with this matter personally, and very carefully. The original suggestion of the County Council was that all 10 should be closed. I refused to accept that, and the matter is now being further considered.

Mr. Dodds

Will the Minister say whether he has suggested that five of them should be closed?

Mr. Macleod

I shall not reveal the nature of discussions that are going on between the Ministry and the Council.