HC Deb 20 June 1944 vol 401 cc26-7
59. Mr. J. Henderson

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that Private Thomas Doran, 4462241, of the Pioneer Corps, who fought throughout the African campaign and who was recently wounded in. Italy, was discharged from a certain military hospital, of which he has been informed, on 7th June on two crutches with a kit weighing 70 lbs. to carry, without his family being notified of his homecoming; that consequently there was no one to await his arrival at the Central Station, Manchester, and he arrived home in an exhausted condition; and will he take immediate steps to prevent a recurrence of this treatment of wounded soldiers which has caused indignation in Manchester.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)

There are, as my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, other and distressing features in this case which are not referred to in his Question. I am sending him a full report of the facts, which includes information about the particular point raised in the Question. This information shows, in my opinion, that no blame is to be attributed to the hospital.

Mr. Henderson

Surely the hospital authorities have charge in this matter, and is it not elementary that, before a wounded soldier is released under the conditions named in the Question, the authorities should take precautions to see first, that he has the necessary assistance and transport right to his home, and second, that his relatives are made aware of his homecoming? Is it not a scandalous thing to see a wounded soldier hobbling along on two crutches and struggling with a kit of 8o lbs., and is my hon. Friend aware that the people of Manchester are very indignant indeed?

Miss Horsbrugh

I would remind my hon. Friend that I am sending him full particulars, but in view of what he has asked, I must say that the man was going on leave and there was no need for him to take these things. He was given leave from the hospital. It is a distressing case, and I think it would be better if my hon. Friend were to read the full answer I am sending him and then, if he thinks it necessary, he can raise the question again.