§ 27. Mr. PARKINSONasked the Minister of Health whether, arising out of the Manchester case of Mollie Taylor, in which it was found that the porter of the hospital took all bookings for maternity cases, and that these bookings bore no relation to the number of beds available, he will inquire in how many cases this practice of employing a porter obtains, and require that some qualified person, such as a lady almoner, should book the cases in relation to the number of beds available?
Sir H. YOUNGMany maternity hospitals are outside my jurisdiction; but I am advised that the method of booking referred to in the first part of the question is quite unusual. My medical officers inquire into the matter at the hospitals which they visit. As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, the published report on Mrs. Taylor's case contained a recommendation that the system of booking at the hospital concerned should be placed under the charge of a responsible officer.