HC Deb 24 May 1927 vol 206 cc1839-40
64. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Minister of Health how much the Dental Board has accumulated in cash and invested in securities; what it is proposed to do with this money; and what steps are being taken by the Board for the professional benefit of the 1,921 dentists who supply a large proportion of this money?

Sir K. WOOD

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the accounts of the Board, which were presented to Parliament in March. The real balance, including the invested general reserve fund, was £20,750. My right hon. Friend is informed that the main items of the Board's expenditure are grants in aid of dental schools, bursaries to dental students of limited means, and research. As regards the last part of the question, the Board are not under any statutory obligation to spend their money for the benefit of any particular class, but my right hon. Friend is informed that, since the formation of the Board, bursaries awarded to sons of "Dentists, 1921," have amounted to approximately £10,000, and the sum of £3,850 has been spent on lectures and demonstrations for the benefit of this class of dentists. In addition, over £10,000 has been allocated to dental health propaganda, and £23,000 to research. "Dentists, 1921," participate in the benefit derived from expenditure in these two directions in proportion to their numbers.

Mr. CRAWFURD

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of expediting the expenditure of this surplus on some useful purpose before it goes the way of all surpluses?

Sir K. WOOD

I have already mentioned the purposes to which the money is being devoted.

Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

Will the Parliamentary Secretary consider the advisability of devoting a portion of this fund to the provision of scholarships for promising boys of the working class who desire to enter the profession?

Sir K. WOOD

No doubt the point raised by the hon. Member will be brought to the notice of the Board by my right hon. Friend.

Mr. W. THORNE

Does the Chancellor of the Exchequer know of the existence of this balance of £20,000,000?

Sir K. WOOD

The hon. Gentleman is mistaken; it is £20,000.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

I would like to ask the hon. Gentleman if he can get some of that money included for the development of small holdings in Scotland?

Sir K. WOOD

I do not think that that arises out of the question on the Paper.