§ 39. Mrs. McKayasked the Minister without Portfolio if he has completed his study of the report on the social problem of loneliness prepared by the Women's Group on Public Welfare, a copy of which has been sent to him; and what consultations he has had with this Group and with other organisations on the establishment of services to deal with this problem.
§ The Minister Without Portfolio (Mr. Douglas Houghton)I have studied this report very closely and am in full sympathy with its aim to relieve loneliness. I draw attention to the report when talking to voluntary bodies, which I frequently do; they have a large part to play.
I have also been discussing with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science the voluntary work of young people in this area of social service. There is a fund of goodwill and enthusiasm there which we should use fully.
§ Mrs. McKayWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for that Answer may I ask him to take into account the fact that our current social policies, for instance, redeployment, however economically advisable, lead to dislocation and increased loneliness? Will the Minister consult with the local authorities to encourage them to establish appropriate services?
§ Mr. HoughtonI would certainly do that. The report of the Committee was in three parts, for the consideration of local authorities, the consideration of voluntary organisations and the consideration of the churches. I am taking steps to see that all three are fully acquainted with the recommendations and do their best with them.