HC Deb 11 October 1939 vol 352 c336
63. Sir Francis Fremantle

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now arrange for the medical care of anti-aircraft searchlight and other scattered units to be undertaken by local civil practitioners, and so release for other duties, until required for service overseas, the medical officers on the established strength, who are unable to cover the ground?

Sir V. Warrender

The military medical establishments of these units must, of course, be maintained, but civilian medical practitioners are employed in cases which regimental medical officers are unable to attend.

Sir F. Fremantle

Is the hon. Member aware that if they are not able to attend a civil practitioner is called in without any arrangements having been made, because these medical officers are unable to attend these scattered units?

Sir V. Warrender

If military doctors are unable to attend the case, a civil medical practitioner is called in.

Sir F. Fremantle

What arrangements are made for him to undertake the work?

Sir V. Warrender

The ordinary arrangements are made.

Sir F. Fremantle

Does the hon. Member realise that in the case of these scattered units of three persons, it is a perfect waste of money to have medical officers attached to them?

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