29. Sir F. HALLasked the amount per head allowed to hospitals for upkeep of military patients; and what was the amount allowed for a similar purpose in January, 1915?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe rates are not in all cases the same, but the standard maximum rate for the great majority of auxiliary hospitals is now 3s. 3d. per occupied bed and 6d. per unoccupied bed a day. In January, 1915, the corresponding rate was 3s. per occupied bed and there was no grant for unoccupied beds.
Sir F. HALLAre we to understand that the increase since the beginning of January, 1915, has been 25 per cent? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that information was given in this House by the right hon. Gentleman who represents the Food Controller that the price of food bad gone up by 106 per cent.? Will the increase in question cover the cost to the hospitals?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is giving information.
§ Sir W. COLLINSAre the rates mentioned to be regarded as covering the whole cost to which the hospital is put in Such cases, or merely as grants in aid?
§ Mr. FORSTERI think they are grants in aid.
Sir F. HALLThen it is not intended that the 3s. 9d. shall be the extra cost of the upkeep of these officers and men?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe hon. Member will surely see that the grant for unoccupied beds, makes a very material difference in the amount available for the provision of food for occupants.
Sir F. HALLIs the amount now allowed sufficient for the upkeep of the food of the officers and men?
§ Mr. FORSTERI have no reason to suppose that it is insufficient.