HC Deb 18 June 1940 vol 362 cc40-1W
Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health whether he will now consider the desirability of issuing a limited number of free travelling passes to the parents or guardians of sick and other evacuated children, particularly in view of the greater distance to which many evacuated children have now been sent?

Miss Horsbrugh

Frequent opportunities are afforded to enable parents of evacuated children to visit them at single fare rates. In addition, local authorities in evacuation areas are authorised to make payments to necessitous parents for visiting their children in cases of serious sickness. Parents in receipt of unemployment and public assistance may also have their fares paid.

Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the copy sent to him of a circular dated 21st May, sent out by the Bexhill Private Schools Association; and whether the statements contained therein have his approval, especially with regard to the further evacuation of children to that district?

Mr. M. MacDonald

I have seen the copy of the circular which has been sent to me by the hon. Member. At the time it was issued Bexhill Borough was a reception area under the Government evacuation scheme. I have, however, now made arrangements with the local authority for children who have been evacuated to Bexhill to be transferred elsewhere. Having regard to the changed circumstances since the circular was issued the Bexhill Private Schools Association will no doubt consider it necessary to withdraw it.

Mr. Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the announcement made by Lord Provost Dollon of Glasgow, a copy of which has been sent to him, to the effect that the military authorities had asked him to advise parents that, unless a larger number of children were removed from the city by voluntary effort, it might he necessary to adopt compulsory powers; Who were the military authorities who gave that advice to the Lord Provost; and what are their powers in this respect?

Mr. Eden

I am making inquiries, and will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.