HC Deb 30 September 1931 vol 257 cc356-7
27. Mr. MACLEAN

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total numbers, respectively, of the sailing, steam and motor vessels built in the United Kingdom during the year 1930; the net tonnage in each of the three categories; and whether he can state separately the number built for foreign owners?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Major Lloyd George)

As the answer contains a table of figures I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

that the hon. Member refers, are made when requisite to enable insurance doctors practising in sparsely populated areas to provide improved service for the benefit, of their insured patients.

Mr. STEPHEN

When there are two or three doctors in a sparsely populated district, can the hon. Member say whether this sum is divided between them, or whether one is given any preference over the others?

Mr. SIMON

Special conditions are in operation in these areas.

30. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the Minister of Health if he will consider reducing expenditure by abolishing or reducing the regional medical office department under the National Health Insurance Acts and allow panel practitioners to determine whether their patients are fit for work or otherwise without interference from an outside department?

Mr. SIMON

The provision of a second medical opinion in cases of doubt whether an insured patient is incapable of work has been recognised as desirable since sickness benefit first came into operation, and my right hon. Friend cannot undertake to consider the hon. Member's suggestion with favour.

Mr. STEPHEN

In view of the need for economy at the present time and the fact that this board is only used to deprive applicants of benefit—it never decides in their favour—will the Government trust the ordinary medical practitioners to determine these cases?

Mr. SIMON

It is almost the unanimous opinion of those concerned with the work of this board that the present practice should continue, and in all the circumstances of the case I cannot accept the hon. Member's suggestion.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is the hon. Member aware that nearly all medical practitioners resent this inspectorate? Can he say what is his authority for saying that there is an almost unanimous opinion in favour of it?

Mr. SIMON

My information is entirely different from that of the hon. Member. No complaint whatever has been received.

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