§ Mr. G. HALLasked the Minister of Health if he has now received replies from the 67 local authorities which had not replied on 27th October, 1932, to Circular 1,167; whether the 61 local authorities who had this matter under consideration have now decided to take action, and, if so, what action; and if he is taking any steps with regard to the 93 local authorities which are not proposing to make any improvement in their services?
Sir H. YOUNG:During the past six weeks one further local authority has replied to the Circular in question, and three others have notified me of their decision to extend their maternity services. It should be made clear that the matter is one in regard to which improvement is to be looked for in the normal course of development of local government. The hon. Member will be glad to be informed that it is within my knowledge that adequate services are already provided in many of the areas referred to by him. In other cases, I think action can be most conveniently taken either in connection with the ordinary health sur- 346W veys made by officers of my Department or as a result of special inquiries where requisite.