HC Deb 19 January 1943 vol 386 cc29-30
44. Mr. J. Griffiths

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what progress has been made with the establishment of a medical service in the regions?

Major Lloyd George

A selected number of candidates from the long list of applicants for regional posts in the Mines Medical Service are being interviewed this week and appointments will be made as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the Miners Welfare Commission, in consultation with the Ministry of Health and the district welfare committees, has been very actively engaged in the search for suitable buildings for miners' rehabilitation centres. A centre in Scotland to accommodate 200 miners was opened on 11th January, and the rehabilitation centre at Berry Hill has been taken over by the Miners' Welfare Commission from the Mutual Indemnity Company. Negotiations are in progress for the acquisition of buildings elsewhere and good progress is being made generally in the other work involved in setting up centres to cover all the chief coalfields.

Mr. Rhys Davies

Is the Minister aware that he can be congratulated upon finding so many doctors for this purpose, when the Minister of Pensions declares that he is unable to find doctors for his pensions tribunals?

Sir Francis Fremantle

Will the Minister consider consulting the Central War Medical Services Committee as to the disposal of man-power in the Forces in making these appointments, so as not to choose people who ought to be called up for the Forces?

Major Lloyd George

My hon. Friend can take this assurance from me, that we are in constant touch with all these authorities.

Dr. Haden Guest

How many doctors are being appointed?

Major Lloyd George

I think eight will be appointed in the regions and one at headquarters—nine altogether.