HC Deb 26 October 1943 vol 393 cc25-6
39. Mr. Neil Maclean

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has now received the Report from the Hetherington Committee on post-war hospital problems; whether he has considered the proposals and is in a position to state if he proposes to introduce legislation to this House at an early date?

Mr. Johnston

The Report was published on 13th October, and as I informed the hon. Member for Greenock (Mr. McNeil) on that date, the Government are considering its recommendations in formulating their proposals for a new National Health Service. It is the Government's intention, in advance of proposing legislation on the subject, to lay a White Paper as a basis of discussion and negotiation.

Mr. Maclean

May I ask when that White Paper is likely to be laid on the Table?

Mr. Johnston

I think at an early date, but I could not pledge myself to an exact date.

Mr. McNeil

Since the problem referred to is rather different in Scotland from what it is in other parts of the United Kingdom, will the right hon. Gentleman see that we have a separate Debate on Scottish health organisation?

Mr. Johnston

That is not a question which I can answer.

Mr. Messer

Is this Report available to the House?

Mr. Johnston

Yes, Sir.