§ 17. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what Regulations are now in force in regard to the grant of short leave to convalescent patients in naval hospitals; whether, at the Royal Naval Hospital, Plymouth, twenty-five married patients only, whose homes must be in the vicinity, are allowed out on Sundays from one to five p.m.; and, if so, will he consider the possibility of extending to patients in naval hospitals the same privileges in the matter of short leave as are now enjoyed by patients in military hospitals upon whom no such restrictions are imposed?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)The Regulations now in force in regard to the grant of short leave to convalescent patients in naval hospitals generally are as follows:—
Leave is granted
- (1) For motor drives.
- (2) For entertainments, tea parties, etc.
- (3) For married men to visit their homes if in proximity to the hospital at the discretion of the medical officer in charge of the case.
As regards the last Regulation, Orders have been given that it shall be applied more extensively in future and shall be applicable to single men, so that naval and military practice as regards short leave shall be assimilated as far as possible.
§ Dr. MACNAMARANot very long ago, because the matter has been the subject of discussion between the medical officers and myself during the last few days. They are the result of suggestions which have been made in several quarters.