§ 24. Mr. C. EDWARDS(for Mr. DAVID GRENFELL) asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that an economy committee of the Plymouth local authority recommended a reduction in the staff of health visitors from 12 to 8; and that, although this recommendation has never been adopted, two vacancies arising in October and November last have not been filled; and whether, in view of the fact that for the week ended 11th March last the infant mortality rate in Plymouth was 106, he will make representations to the Plymouth local authority as to the advisability of filling the vacancies and maintaining the full staff of health visitors?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREMy right hon. Friend is aware of the recommendation referred to, but he has no precise information as to the health visiting staff at present employed by the Plymouth Town Council. My right hon. Friend is addressing a communication to the council on this matter and will inform the hon. Member of the result.
Viscountess ASTORWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that Plymouth has a very good medical officer of health and a very good staff, and that the real trouble about all municipal authorities is that politics get mixed up with them and then the real goodness goes out?
§ Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMSWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that Plymouth also has very good Members?
§ Mr. THORNEDoes the hon. Gentleman not think that the high infant mortality is due to Plymouth's representation in Parliament?