HC Deb 19 March 1953 vol 513 cc188-9
7. Mr. Carr

asked the Minister of Health how many local authorities have now submitted schemes for promoting the welfare of physically handicapped persons; and how many of these schemes include provisions for handicraft training.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

Sixty-five local authorities in England and Wales have submitted schemes for promoting the welfare of physically handicapped persons. All these schemes include provision enabling the authorities to train handicapped persons in handicrafts.

Mr. Carr

Can my hon. Friend say whether Surrey County Council is one of the authorities which has submitted a scheme? On a more general point, is there any indication whether the remaining authorities are preparing schemes? If not, can my hon. Friend do anything to encourage them?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

We have not yet had a scheme submitted by the Surrey County Council. Although my right hon. Friend has power to issue directions, he does not feel that it is opportune to do so when other schemes are still coming in.

Mr. E. Evans

Can the hon. Lady say whether her right hon. Friend feels satisfied that the response is generally satisfactory, and also whether his mind is moving a little towards making Circular 33 of 1951 mandatory?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The response has been reasonably good, and other schemes are still coming in. My right hon. Friend does not feel that it is opportune to issue any directions now.