§ 35. Mr. TOM SMITHasked the Minister of Pensions if, in view of the dissatisfaction which exists among patients in the Ministry of Pensions hospital at Chapel Allerton, Leeds, with regard to the compulsory wearing of hospital-blue clothing when allowed out of hospital for short periods, he will consider the advisability of altering the regulations so as to enable civilian clothes to be worn?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. F. O. Roberts)I cannot, I regret, in the interests of the patients adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion. It has been the consistent policy for all Ministry hospitals, in accordance with medical advice, that patients should wear the distinctive clothing, which, when out of the grounds of the hospital, secures for the patient such protection and assistance as would naturally be afforded in case of need to one who was known to be a hospital patient.
§ Mr. SMITHIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this dissatisfaction is not concerned merely with the hospital at Chapel Allerton, but with many hospitals, and can he say whether the wearing of hospital clothes is compulsory with patients below the rank of officer?
§ Mr. ROBERTSI have received representations on this matter on many occasions, and I am satisfied that it is in the best interests of the patients that the present arrangement should continue.