§ Q9. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Prime Minister what communication he has received from the Association of Child Care Officers about child poverty; what were its terms; and what reply he has made.
§ The Prime MinisterThey wrote to me on the 19th April, drawing my attention to a resolution about child poverty passed at their annual general meeting and asking for quick and effective Government action. In reply the Association 1699 was reminded of the important measures which the Government have already put into operation for the benefit of the poorer members of the community, and of our announced intention to bring forward further proposals this summer.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonDoes that not mean that the Government are unable to give them quick and effective action?
§ The Prime MinisterIn the sphere of social security covered by the representations of the Association, we have given quick and effective action over a very wide range of issues never dealt with before, and we have done it during 2½ years of economic difficulty. We have said that our statement on child poverty will be made before the House adjourns for the Summer Recess.