HC Deb 22 March 1945 vol 409 cc1009-10W
Sir P. Harris

asked the Minister of Health how many day nurseries were subsidised by his Ministry through local authorities before this war; and whether they can look for at least the same assistance, on the same terms, after the war is over.

Mr. Willink

Before the war, 83 day nurseries carried on by voluntary bodies were subsidised by local authorities. The local authorities are required by the Local Government Act of 1929 to continue to pay to these bodies the grants which before the passing of the Act were paid directly by the Exchequer. The grants could be discontinued only with the consent of the Minister.