HC Deb 13 May 1957 vol 570 cc27-8
55. Sir H. Linstead

asked the Minister of Health whether. in view of the long period which has elapsed since the publication of the Crook Committee's Report, he will now state when it is intended to introduce legislation to provide for the registration of opticians.

Mr. Vosper

I am conscious of the importance if this legislation and it will be introduced as soon as Parliamentary time allows. I regret that I cannot at present say when this will be.

Sir H. Linstead

May I take it from my hon. Friend's reply that there is no other difficulty except Parliamentary time in the way of introducing this Bill?

Mr. Vosper

That is correct.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that we have been waiting for many years now for the introduction of legislation, and is it not high time that this should be introduced?

Mr. Vosper

The-Crook Report, on which this legislation would be based, was published in 1952. It needed prolonged consideration, but I am aware of the necessity to do this as soon as possible.