9. Dr. VERNON DAVIESasked the Secretary of State for War how many beds have been reduced by the closing of the military hospital, Chatham, the Alexandra Military Hospital at Cosham, and the military hospital at Devonport, respectively; what economies have been effected by this reduction; and what reduction in hospital personnel has followed the closing of these hospitals?
§ Mr. COOPERSo far as the War Department is concerned, the answer to the first, and last parts of the question is that there has been a net reduction of 215 equipped beds, and of 15 officers, 15 nurses of the Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service and 149 other staff. As regards the second part of the question, in addition to economies in beds and staff, the buildings have been set free for other Government purposes or ultimate disposal.
Dr. DAVIESCan my hon. Friend say if these personnel have been dismissed, or if they have been simply transferred to other hospitals in the country?
§ Mr. COOPERI do not think they have all been dismissed at present, but I should require notice of that question.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI do not know if I failed to hear what the hon. Gentleman said, but can he tell me why it is that the number of these beds is being reduced?
§ Mr. COOPERIn order to effect economy.