§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why it took his Department from 7th January to 3rd February to send an interim reply concerning the matter raised with him by the hon. Member for West Ham, North, regarding the personal case of Gordon Richards; and when a substantive reply may be expected.
§ Mr. CrossmanMy hon. Friend's letter of 7th January was acknowledged on 9th January. When it became clear that, because of inquiries about Mr. Richards' insurance record while he was abroad, the reply might take longer than expected, my hon. Friend was informed on 3rd February that he would be sent a full reply as soon as possible. This has now been done.