HL Deb 29 April 1919 vol 34 c383

Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER (THE EARL OF CRAWFORD)

My lords, this Bill is simple in its character in so far as it extends to Ireland provisions which already exist, and for many years past have existed, in this country in respect to the medical inspection and treatment of children attending elementary schools. It is Section 13 of the Education Act, 1907, and the Local Education Authorities Act, 1909, which are extended by this measure to Ireland, and the Bill equips the local authorities in that country with the same powers as those which have existed in England in respect to our local educational authorities for the last ten years or more.

I shall not weary your Lordships with a recitation of what occurred in another place on this Bill, beyond saying that as introduced the Bill was not mandatory in character. Criticism arose on that point, and as the Bill emerged from Committee it was made an obligation on the local authority to provide the necessary inspection and treatment, and not left to their option. The Bill was amended accordingly, and that is the form in which it is now presented to your Lordships. I think it may be looked upon as an agreed measure. It is one which certainly has been for some time past overdue in Ireland. I beg to move.

Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(The Earl of Crawford.)

On Question, Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House.