§ 5. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the special conditions in the Outer Hebrides, with regard to transport and communications and geographical factors, will be borne in mind in the framing of health legislation affecting Scotland; and if he can make a statement as to what conclusions have been come to regarding the Highlands and Islands medical service.
§ Mr. T. JohnstonI am at present discussing with the various interests concerned the shape of the proposed new National Health Service generally and until those consultations are further advanced I am not in a position to make any statement about the Highlands and Islands medical service. The remarkable success which has attended that service and the other conditions to which my hon. Friend refers will be carefully borne in mind.
§ Mr. MacMillanIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is a good deal of anxiety among medical men concerned and others that the special place accorded to the Highlands and Islands medical service may not be continued under the national service? Can he give an assurance on the matter?
§ Mr. JohnstonI do not know any cause for that apprehension and anxiety. I have done by best to dispel it in the course of consultations.
§ Mr. McKinlayCould we have a guarantee that the administration of this scheme will not be transferred to London?
§ Mr. JohnstonI think the answer is in the affirmative.