HC Deb 30 January 1940 vol 356 cc960-1
14. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider with the Minister of Health and the Secretary of State for Scotland the provision of medical treatment to the dependants of men on military service?

Mr. Stanley

I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Roan to the right hon. Member for Kirkcaldy (Mr. Kennedy) on 18th January last. I am discussing the matter with my right hon. Friends the Minister of Health and the Secretary of State for Scotland, but I must point out that to undertake at the expense of Army funds the medical treatment of dependants of all men who join the Army for the duration of the war would involve serious difficulties.

Mr. Gibson

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind the fact that this matter is creating the gravest concern in very wide circles, and in particular is causing great concern to National Health insurance committees?

Mr. Stanley

I am discussing this question with the Minister of Health, and I will bear the hon. and learned Member's Question in mind.