HC Deb 02 June 1938 vol 336 cc2219-20
40 Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of Health the circumstances in which the St. Paul's Hospital lost its grant of £8,000 from the London County Council, leading to its having to close down several wards; and why no public inquiry was held into the events which led to this action being taken?

Mr. Elliot

The grant referred to. was payable by the London County Council to the St. Paul's Hospital in pursuance of arrangements made annually between the county- council and the hospital for the diagnosis and treatment of venereal diseases. I am informed that in reviewing their venereal diseases scheme for the year 1937–38 the county council decided that it was no longer necessary to continue the arrangements with St. Paul's Hospital. The discontinuance or renewal of such arrangements is a matter within the discretion of the county council.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the right hon. Gentlemen aware of the scandals of one kind and another which have appeared in the public Press; the libel cases which have been going on? Will he not consider taking some action to bring about a better condition of affairs?

Mr. Elliot

This is a matter within the discretion of the county council and I do not think it would be advisable for the Ministry to interfere.