52. Miss Wardasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the differences which exist between medical treatment provided for men in the Regular Services and men called up under the National Service Act and the fact that, after 20 years' service, it is possible for men to be discharged without notice with a serious illness to face, he will move to appoint a Select Committee to examine the points on which differences of treatment exist in order to equalise them?
§ The Prime MinisterHaving made various inquiries, I am not aware of any differentiation between Regular and other personnel in this matter. The arrangements for continuity of treatment on discharge are applicable to all members of the Forces, and no useful purpose would be served by setting up a Select Committee. If my hon. Friend has an individual case in mind, I shall be glad to arrange for special inquiries to be made.
Miss WardIf I ventured to send my right hon. Friend a general statement of the position, would he very kindly look into it?
§ The Prime MinisterCertainly, Sir. If the statements I have made here about uniformity of treatment are wrong, I shall be very glad to have information that will upset them, but I am rather doubtful whether that will be forthcoming.
Miss WardWill my right Friend be kind enough to inquire into the question of the immediate discharge of invalids?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is another topic.
§ Mr. ThorneAs this is the last Question to you to-day, Mr. Prime Minister, may I congratulate you here, upon your splendid speech last night?
§ The Prime MinisterI am very grateful for that expression, coming from the hon. Member.