§ Sir J. BIRCHALLasked the Minister of Health whether he can confirm the following estimated child population, under 15, in England and Wales: 1936, 8,815,800; 1946, 6,548,100; 1956, 4,989,900; 1966, 4,200,900; and 1976, 3,362,200.
Sir H. YOUNGSuch estimates as those referred to must be regarded as the statistical expression of a particular choice of assumptions or predictions as to the future course of events. The course of the birth rate in this country over so long a future period is entirely problematical; and predictions with regard to it can be neither confirmed nor disproved. I am advised however, that no less credible assumptions may be entertained accord- 185W ing to which the figures quoted would appear to be substantially understated.