HC Deb 09 February 1961 vol 634 cc619-20
56. Sir. D. Walker-Smith

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will advise the setting up of a Royal Commission to review, and make recommendations upon, the financing of the social services in the context of contemporary conditions and the nation's resources.

Sir E. Boyle

No, Sir.

Sir D. Walker-Smith

Would not my hon. Friend agree that there is a considerable divergence in the pattern of financing of our social services, more the result of the accident of time and history than any logical reason? Would not he agree that a review by a Royal Commission could give a detached and dispassionate study to this important question and thereby help the evolution of a system containing the highest common factor of economy, efficiency and the avoidance of hardship?

Sir E. Boyle

I agree entirely with the first part of what my right hon. and learned Friend said. Concerning the second part, I rather doubt whether this is a suitable field for recommendation by a Royal Commission, because I think that I may carry the House with me when I say that ultimately this must be in the field of political decision.

Mr. Wade

While agreeing that this is a matter for Government policy, may I ask the Minister whether his right hon. and learned Friend is considering any reform for the raising of finance for the social services which would be more just and sensible than the present system and which would be fair to the various sections of the community who are called upon to contribute?

Sir E. Boyle

We are in a period when hon. Members on both sides of the House will have full opportunity to air their views on financial affairs in this respect.

Mr. Loughlin

In view of recent Government policy on financial matters, would it not be cheaper for the nation for the Financial Secretary to purchase a copy of the document "Practice and Principles "and give it to his right hon. and learned Friend, because this is what they are putting into effect?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not want to be discourteous to one of my constituents, but I do not honestly see the point of that supplementary question.