§ LORD SNELLMy Lords, these Regulations represent the last stage in the carrying out of the undertaking given by the Prime Minister on November 6 last. The effect of the Regulations will be that the household means test will be altogether abolished, and in place of it there will be a test of personal need. The detailed proposals are set out in the White Paper Cmd. 6265, and the explanatory memorandum interprets the Regulations throughout. There is therefore no need for any kind of detailed explanation now. Perhaps it will be sufficient to say that, after long and careful examination, 105 these Regulations were, in general, sup ported by all Parties in another place. Although a minority were dissatisfied with some of the proposals made, all regard what is proposed as a considerable improvement on existing conditions. It is important, therefore, that in your Lordships' House the same measure of general approval should be given to these proposals as they received in another place. The subject with which these Regulations deal has been one of prolonged controversy in which some of us have taken a part, and I feel sure that your Lordships will rejoice that a general understanding in regard to them has been reached. I beg to move.
§ Moved, That the Special Order, as reported from the Special Orders Committee on the 23rd instant, be approved.—(Lord Snell.)
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.