HC Deb 14 July 1942 vol 381 cc1060-1
23. Mrs. Hardie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the Report of the medical officer of health for Glasgow that the demand for indoor accommodation for confinements is increasing and is very difficult to meet; and, in view of the high rate of maternal mortality in Scotland, will he take steps to ensure that further accommodation for maternity is included in new hospital services?

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. T. Johnston)

I have seen the Report referred to. The aim of the Government's hospital policy is to secure that hospital treatment shall be available to every person in need of it: that certainly includes adequate provision for maternity cases. In the meantime expec- tant mothers in Glasgow may be admitted to emergency maternity homes outside the city, set up under the Government Evacuation Scheme, in which there is at present vacant accommodation.

Mrs. Hardie

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many young married people cannot get a house at all but have to live with relatives or in single rooms? Can something be done to press the immediate provision of this necessary accommodation?

Mr. Johnston

I think the latter part of my answer makes it clear that in these cases provision can be made for maternity accommodation.

Mrs. Hardie

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are only 300 beds for evacuees?

Mr. Johnston

There is vacant accommodation now which is not being applied for.

Dr. Edith Summerskill

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many authorities in England believe that the decrease in maternal mortality is relative to the increased accommodation for confinements?

Mr. Johnston

I cannot answer questions about England.