§ 71. Mr. PYBUSasked the Minister of Health whether, considering the necessity for the extension of hospitals in all parts of the country, he will consider the application of some form of grant based on the principles by which the Unemployment Grants Committee assist local authorities and the Loans Development Committee assist public utilities?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe need for any expansion in the hospital services of a particular district is doubtless being considered by each local authority after a review of the accommodation at present available, including that recently transferred to the authority as a result of the Local Government Act. The grants now payable to local authorities under that Act include provision for development of the health services, including the provision of hospitals, and I do not think that the suggestion made by the hon. Member is one which I should be justified in accepting.
§ Mr. PYBUSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that it is impossible for voluntary hospitals to secure grants of any kind, while, on the other hand, it is possible for local authorities or privately-owned public utility companies to secure grants for all kinds of buildings? If the right hon. Gentleman will press this urgent matter upon the Chancellor of the Exchequer, he will secure the entire support of the House.
Mr. GEEENWOODI think my hon. Friend realises that the distinction made by the Unemployment Grants Committee is that their grants are confined to purposes which have a direct economic value.
§ Mr. PYBUSI was suggesting a new form of grant, not connected with the Unemployment Grants Committee or the Development Committee. My suggestion was that hospitals have a most direct economic value and—