Beveridge Delays
Sir William Beveridge presented his now historic report to the Government in November, 1942. In February, 1943, the Govern- ment in a series of muddled statements undertook to accept the greater part of the recommendations, in particular the principles of family allowances and of comprehensive health and rehabilitation services. It did not agree to the appointment of a Minister of Social Security, and it is now clear how right those were who
criticised that refusal from the first. The health and rehabilitation service question is being dealt with by the Minister of Health. He at any rate has shown some signs of life, having s discussed the possibilities with authoritative representatives of the medical pro- fession. A White Paper on the whole subject is promised for an early date. What Sir William Jowitt, who, as Minister without Portfolio, is handling most of the rest of the report, has been doing no man knows. A deputation of the Social Security League tried to discover on Monday but had to confess themselves dis- comfited, getting no assurance more satisfactory than that a White Paper on the Government's plans would "it is hoped " be published some time within the next few months, together with a reminder of a statement Sir William made in the House last July—regarding family allowances only—to the effect that . "I am now in a position to arrange for the preparation of draft . ditties in "a. farm which, subject to further examination, would be available for incorporation in a Bill. I cannot at present give any indication of the date on which the necessary legislation will be introduced."
That is where we have got with the Beveridge Report after ten months. The .Social Security League rightly declares that the Report. "has become in the eyes of the world a test case of British sincerity of moral purpose." We can hardly be said to be emerging from the test so far with flying colours.
Previous page
