§ 63. Dr. Edith Summerskillasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the recent conference of 7,000 delegates from women's institutes at the Albert Hall, a t which it was agreed by an overwhelming majority that analgesia at childbirth should be available for all mothers who desire it; and whether he will set up an inquiry with a view to steps being taken which would meet the demand of these mothers?
§ Mr. ElliotWhen a doctor is in charge of a case, the question of the administration of analgesics is, of course, within his discretion. As regards births attended by a midwife, the Central Midwives Board, which is the statutory authority regulating the practice of midwives, has resolved, following a report by the British College of Obstetricians, that midwives who have received suitable instruction may, with adequate safeguards, themselves administer analgesics. I am advised that it is within the powers of local authorities to provide the necessary apparatus as part of the equipment of the midwives whom they employ under the Act of 1936.
§ Captain Sir Derrick GunstonIs the Minister aware that the former Minister of Health did what he could to encourage the birth rate in this country, and will he do what he can by taking steps to meet this requirement?
§ Mr. ElliotI think the provisions made for the midwives' services under the 1936 Act confer most important powers.
§ Dr. SummerskillDoes the right hon. Gentleman know how many local authorities are supplying midwives' apparatus?
§ Mr. ElliotI will try to get the information if the hon. Member will put down a question.