HC Deb 30 June 1914 vol 64 cc207-8W
Mr. RUPERT GUINNESS

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether, in view of the fact that it is now five years since the Commission appointed to deal with Poor Law reported, he can state if and when it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to deal with the question of Poor Law reform?

Mr. HERBERT LEWIS

My right hon. Friend is afraid that he cannot give any undertaking as to the introduction of a Poor Law Reform Bill. I may, however, remind the hon. Member that, since the Royal Commission reported, the Local Government Board by Departmental action have carried into effect many suggestions of the Commission for improving the administration of the Poor Law. Recent legislation also, by dealing with such matters as old age pensions, Labour Exchanges, Trade Boards, mental deficiency, tuberculosis, and insurance against sickness and unemployment, has greatly affected a large part of the problem which the Royal Commission was appointed to consider.