HC Deb 02 May 1940 vol 360 c887
44. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Health whether the Government will take steps to introduce legislation forth with to abolish rating in connection with voluntary hospitals?

The Minister of Health (Mr. Elliot)

The answer is in the negative. Proposals of this kind have been considered on many occasions. There have been found to be strong objections to their adoption, and these objections are still valid.

Mr. De la Bère

Does my right hon. Friend realise that since the outbreak of war many voluntary hospitals have been placed in financial difficulties which they did not previously experience, and will he in the light of that give the matter further consideration and see whether assistance can be given?

Mr. Elliot

I know the alteration in the circumstances of voluntary hospitals which has taken place during the war, not always to their disadvantage, and I am keeping the matter under close review.

Mr. Thorne

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in some cases rates have jumped up by 2s. and 2s. 6d. in the £?