HC Deb 31 October 1946 vol 428 cc145-6W
Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Health how many day nurseries there were in existence in July, 1945; and how many of these were closed before 31st March, 1946.

Mr. Bevan

The number of day nurseries in existence in England and Wales in July, 1945, was 1,437. Of these 103 were closed before 31st March, 1946.

Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Health how many applicants there are for each day nursery in Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds, who cannot at present be admitted owing to shortage of start, or for any other reason; and how many applications for attendance at day nurseries have been refused in each of these towns since 31st March, 1946.

Mr. Bevan

I have asked for these figures and will communicate them to my hon. Friend as soon as they are available.

Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Health how many day nurseries were directly administered by local authorities prior to 31st March, 1946.

Mr. Bevan

On the 31st March, 1946, the number of day nurseries directly administered by local authorities in England and Wales was 1,317.

Mr. Wyatt

asked the Minister of Health what dietetic, psychological or intelligence test investigations have been made in order to ascertain the general difference in health and mental outlook between children brought up in day nurseries and those of a similar environment and economic background who have not been to day nurseries.

Mr. Bevan

I am not aware that any investigation of this scope has been carried out but the Medical Women's Federation has conducted an inquiry into the health of day nursery children and children attending welfare centres in 22 local government areas, and their report is published in the "British Medical Journal" for 17th August, 1946.