§ Rear-Admiral Beamishasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made with the investigations into the 247W social and economic aspects of family allowance; whether an interim or final Report is to be expected shortly; and whether consideration has been given to the proposal to provide such allowances in the form of coupons for specific quantities of basic foodstuffs and clothing for children?
§ Sir K. WoodConsiderable progress has been made with the investigation which I have undertaken, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement on the subject. As regards the last part of the Question, my investigation has been primarily concerned with cash allowances, but I appreciate that in present conditions the problem may be less one of cash than of ensuring that adequate supplies are available for children. The Government have taken a number of practical measures to this end, and the position in this respect will continue to be watched with a view to such action as the circumstances may require.