HC Deb 22 January 1974 vol 867 cc1421-2
4. Mr. David Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is now able to publish the Lane Committee's Report.

Sir K. Joseph

The committee's report has been received and it is hoped to publish it as soon as possible.

Mr. Steel

When publishing the report does the Secretary of State intend to publish simultaneously the Government's views on what action should be taken on the report, or does he intend that there should be a time lag between the two?

Sir K. Joseph

We are studying the report, but it was received by us literally only a few days ago and I cannot commit myself to an immediate response. As the House is aware, a Private Members' Bill will come forward next month.

Mr. Redmond

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the deep and sincere feeling about the present position on abortion held by a wide cross-section of the community? Is he aware of the demand for legislation and action rather than merely waiting for a report? Will he give us an assurance that the Government will do nothing to hinder the Private Member's Bill?

Sir K. Joseph

I must reserve my position on the Private Member's Bill until we have studied the report for which the House and the country have been waitng. It is true that there are strong and sincere opinions, but they are, unfortunately, conflicting opinions.

Mr. William Hamilton

If the Private Member's Bill measures up to the recommendations of the Lane Committee and fulfils those recommendations, will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will support it in the House?

Sir K. Joseph

The hon. Gentleman puts his question very reasonably, but I must ask the House to await the publication of the report.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Does not the Question of the hon. Member for Roxburgh, Selkirk and Peebles (Mr. David Steel) and his very proper interest in the Lane Report indicate that he recognises the dire consequences of his legislation?

Sir K. Joseph

I think that my hon. Friend will be eager to read the Lane Report with its thorough assessment of all the implications.