HC Deb 20 April 1944 vol 399 cc359-60
32. Sir John Wardlaw-Milne

asked the Minister of Health what arrangements have been made to deal with the large number of expectant mothers who had arranged to go to the Birches Nursing Home, Redditch, which has now been closed down owing to want of staff; and what arrangements the Government have made to remedy this situation.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Willink)

I am informed that arrangements have been made for the admission to the county maternity homes of expectant mothers who had intended shortly to go to the Birches Nursing Home, Redditch, for their confinement. I understand from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour that no application was made to the appropriate appointments officer for assistance in providing staff in replacement of the senior midwife who had been taken ill.

Sir J. Wardlaw-Milne

My right hon. and learned Friend, I am sure, is well aware of the great difficulties that exist, especially in Redditch, and all over the country, in connection with housing, and will he take special steps to try and find staff for this important home which a large number of women were waiting to enter and regarding which, I am advised, there is no alternative accommodation?

Mr. Willink

There are great difficulties as regards the supply of midwives, but it is rather remarkable that no application has been made for replacing this midwife.

Sir J. Wardlaw-Milne

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that in this case, it is not only a question of midwives, but of domestic staff as well? In view of the questions that have been put to-day to the Minister of Labour, does not my right hon. Friend think it necessary to review the whole situation so that what domestic labour is available should be provided for these cases?