§ 15. Mr. Fisherasked the Minister of Health if he will consider the introduction of legislation to allow local health authorities to provide wider advice and instruction in family planning than they are authorised to do at present.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonThis matter is under consideration.
§ Mr. FisherDoes the right hon. Gentleman agree that wider provision of this service is desirable? If so, does he realise that he can facilitate it by legislation, if he wishes to do so? Will he do so?
§ Mr. RobinsonAs the hon. Gentleman knows, the timing of legislation is not a matter for me. He will also be aware of the fact that I sent a circular to local health authorities on this matter. I believe that certain steps could be taken by many authorities—and in my view authorities should take them—to develop the existing facilities even within the limits of their present powers.
§ Mr. WinnickCan my right hon. Friend say what has been the response so far from local health authorities on family planning?
§ Mr. RobinsonGenerally favourable.
§ Dame Joan VickersWill the right hon. Gentleman be giving any grants towards this service? At present funds have to be raised by voluntary contributions.
§ Mr. RobinsonIf the hon. Lady is thinking of grants for the Family Planning Association, these are channelled through local authorities, and a number of authorities are making these grants, as well as making premises available free of charge.