HC Deb 07 March 1944 vol 397 cc1878-9
74. Mr. Mack

asked the Minister of Health what progress has been made for the provision of a maternity hospital in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

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

The provision of a permanent maternity hospital would not be practicable during the war. Suggestions have therefore been made to meet the immediate needs of women requiring institutional confinement, for medical reasons or on grounds of unsuitable home conditions, in new beds which are being provided in neighbouring areas. The town council have also been informed that if a suitable house can be found far temporary use as a maternity home the Ministry's officers will give all possible help.

Mr. Mack

Is the hon. Lady aware that continuous representations have been made to the Ministry by the borough council since 1934, and that there is grave concern in the area that mothers-to-be are not getting the treatment they ought to have in these difficult circumstances? Is she also aware that in the neighbouring area of Stoke-on-Trent the accommodation is taxed to capacity, thereby causing grave hardship to the people in that area?

Miss Horsbrugh

Further accommodation is being provided in neighbouring areas, and there is the possibility, if a house can be found, of providing a small unit locally. It is, however, better to have larger units serving areas than many smaller local units.

Mr. Mack

Is the hon. Lady aware that only recently representatives of Newcastle-under-Lyme town council went to the Ministry of Health about the matter, but that the interview was not satisfactory, as the Ministry was not able to give an assurance on the lines which she has indicated?

Miss Horsbrugh

The assurance that was given to the deputation is exactly the same as the assurance I have given to the hon. Gentleman now.

Mr. Mack

I wish to give notice that, owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.