§ 69. Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that inmates of the Queen Mary's Hospital, Roehampton, awaiting operations are only allowed leave passes from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. daily; and, in order that these men may have more opportunities of visiting their families and friends, will he suggest that the medical officer in charge allows the patients longer periods of leave during the daytime, provided that this is not likely to interfere with medical treatment?
Lieut.-Colonel STANLEYThe Regulations as to leave of absence which are in force in the hospital referred to apply equally to all Ministry hospitals. The Regulations are drawn as generously as possible consistently with the interests of the patients, who, it must be remembered, are in these hospitals for the purpose of medical or surgical treatment, and I am advised that they cannot be extended with advantage.