§ 89. Mr. McGOVERNasked the Minister of Health whether, as it is the practice of health authorities owning infectious diseases hospitals to convey patients from their homes to the hospitals, he will issue a circular recommending local authorities that they should arrange for patients to be conveyed to their homes on discharge?
Sir H. YOUNGLocal authorities have power to arrange for the conveyance of persons to their homes on discharge from 511 hospital, and I understand that many authorities already use this power. But it, is a matter entirely within the discretion of the local authorities, a discretion with which there are no grounds for interference.
§ Mr. McGOVERNIn view of the fact that it is a health problem and that there is considerable danger of these children on being discharged contracting chills and that there is also the danger of infecting other children in public conveyances on the way home, will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of urging the local authorities to make special provision in these cases?
Sir H. YOUNGThese matters are most pertinent for the consideration of the local authorities, and I do not think there is any evidence of any need for my interference with their discretion.