HC Deb 03 March 1920 vol 126 cc426-7
34. Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the present uncertainty as to the future utilisation of existing Poor Law infirmaries is hampering boards of guardians in their endeavours to make adequate provision for the needs of the sick either by way of extension or improvement of their institutions; whether, in the interests of an early reorganisation of health services, he will inform boards of guardians what is the policy of the Ministry with regard to these particular institutions and the use to which they are destined to be put under the new scheme of health services which is contemplated; and whether he is aware that the various health authorities in London and boards of guardians are particularly handicapped in making proper institutional provision for tuberculous persons owing to the failure of the Ministry as yet to carry into effect the declared policy of the Government with regard to the Poor Law.

Dr. ADDISON

Yes, Sir; but the matters referred to by the hon. Member involve questions of local government, and other subjects of the first importance, that can be dealt with only by legislation; and it is obviously necessary that I should lay proposals before Parliament and obtain its sanction thereto before I could properly adopt towards local bodies the attitude suggested in the question.

36. Mr. BRIANT

asked the Minister of Health if he will take steps to co-ordinate the work of the Poor Law infirmaries and voluntary hospitals so that persons requiring treatment shall be sent direct to the most suitable institution, and shall thus be saved the delay and danger of seeking admission at two or more institutions before obtaining the necessary treatment.

Dr. ADDISON

I am aware of the case which the hon. Member has in mind, and I will consider the question; but I have no jurisdiction over voluntary hospitals.

Mr. BRIANT

Docs the right hon. Gentleman not realise that no effective medical administration in the country can be obtained if he does not withdraw the distinction between Poor Law infirmaries and hospitals?

Dr. ADDISON

I am not quite sure that any effective administration would maintain that distinction.

Mr. BRIANT

Will the right hon. Gentleman introduce legislation to make it effective?

Dr. ADDISON

Nobody is better acquainted with the complications of this subject than my hon. Friend.