HC Deb 17 November 1938 vol 341 c1057
71. Mr. Kirby

asked the Minister of Health what city hospitals and voluntary hospitals, respectively, in the city of Liverpool are equipped with apparatus known as iron lungs; whether he is satisfied that the needs of the city in this respect have been adequately met; and, if not, what steps are being taken to remedy the deficiency?

The Minister of Health (Mr. Elliot)

I am informed by the town council that there are at present none of these appliances in the Liverpool hospitals, but that one has been ordered for the Liverpool Royal Infirmary and that the council have decided to purchase one for the municipal hospitals.

Mr. Kirby

May I ask at what date the right hon. Gentleman received the information in regard to the purchase of one by the city council? Is he aware that some two months ago the city council had to send to Ipswich for one by special aeroplane, and only last week had to send to Birmingham for one by special aeroplane?

Mr. Elliot

I could not give my hon. Friend the exact date without notice, but will write to him and let him know.

Mr. Kirby

Is it not a fact that at the last meeting of the city council prior to the elections the council turned down the proposed purchase of an iron lung?