HC Deb 11 December 1952 vol 509 cc79-80W
76. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the action of the Middlesex County Council in basing charges for the day nurseries according to the gross income of the families of which the children are members is causing considerable hardship; and if he will direct that, on the presentation of appeals, the net income only will be taken into account.

78. Mr. Orbach

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the questionnaire issued to mothers by the Middlesex County Council in connection with the charges to be made in day nurseries if he is aware that this questionnaire calls for a means test based purely on gross income; and whether he will withhold his consent to charges being made until this questionnaire has been modified.

Mr. Iain Macleod

This is a matter for the County Council, and I see no reason to interfere.

77. Mr. Orbach

asked the Minister of Health how many local authorities have taken positive action in response to his circular permitting an increase in day nursery charges; and how many have declined.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The information asked for is not available.