§ 42. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that under the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925, the assessment of provincial hospitals in England and Wales has been increased from £1.56 per patient bed to £2.36 per patient bed; and, in view of the financial difficulties which already hamper the work of these hospitals, what action he proposes to take in the matter?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have no general information as to the effect of the revaluation of hospitals. I can only 539 refer to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member for Newcastle North (Sir N. Grattan-Doyle).
§ Mr. MORRISONWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether yesterday's reply by his right hon. Friend was the last word on the subject, and whether the Government are not prepared to give any reconsideration to the matter?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIt would be very rash to say that it is the last word on the subject. The subject will probably be discussed many times, but, so far as legislation in this Parliament is concerned, it is the last word.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that generally, as a result of the Rating and Valuation Act of 1925, and the present Act, hospitals will be infinitely worse off than before?
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs it not possible to divert to the hospitals the £400,000 which it is proposed to give to the brewers?
§ 55. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Health what is the increase or decrease in the assessment for rating purposes under the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925, of all the voluntary hospitals in Sheffield and the increased or decreased charge on the basis of present rate poundage?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am informed that the old assessments of all the voluntary hospitals in Sheffield amounted to £1,518 and that the new assessments under the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925, amount to £l,529, showing an increase of £11. On the present rate poundage this would involve an increased charge of about £9.