HC Deb 25 May 1939 vol 347 c2495
59. Sir George Broadbridge

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the serious financial condition of the voluntary hospitals of this country, particularly in London, due principally to reduced amount of subscriptions and falling off in donations and legacies; and whether, as this position is due to lower interest-bearing securities and increased taxation and generous public response to the Czecho-Slovakian and Jewish refugee appeals, he will take steps to assist these hospitals and so prevent them reducing the number of wards or closing down altogether?

Mr. Elliot

I recognise the financial difficulties confronting certain of the voluntary hospitals. My hon. Friend knows that there has recently been consultation, in regard to London, between representatives of the London County Council, the King Edward VII Hospital Fund and the Voluntary Hospitals Committee for London. I am keeping in touch with these discussions and I have the matter under close consideration.

Sir Henry Morris-Jones

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the very serious anxiety which the governing bodies of many of these hospitals in the big cities, and also the staffs, are going through at the present time? They have rendered a magnificent service to the State and will he consider the position they are in financially?

Mr. Elliot

Yes, Sir, those are the matters which are being considered.

Mr. Hicks

Does the Minister not think it is a tragedy that these wonderful matrons and nurses, with their great skill, have to spend so much of their time organising charities instead of utilising their skill?