The debate on the Means Test was turned into a
demonstra- tion by the amendment. It is significant that the list of dissentients included Mr. Ellis Smith and Mr. Davidson, of Glasgow, both of them wholehearted supporters of all war measures. Only one-third of Labour members voted at all in the Aye lobby. The amendment was moved by Mr. Ness Edwards, and most of those supporting it came from the old distressed areas, where the incidence of the household means test was most severe. Mr. Pethick-Lawrence roused the passions of some of his colleagues by a spirited—almost bitter—attack on their seeming disloyalty. While it is always good to hear a full-blooded speech from any side of the House, there is some doubt whether this particular method of approach was the best for the occasion. However, we learn that no repri- mands are to take place; democracy gains its day. The most objectionable part of the Test has been removed, and is never likely to return. But the excellent speech made by Captain Cobb from the Conservative benches deserves close attention. Too many' needless anomalies exist in. our system of social services, particularly in relation to pensions.
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