18. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the exceptional treatment for rheumatism available at Droitwich in the Midland region, adjacent to the large industrial population of the Midlands, he can now make some statement in connection with the proposals which have been forwarded to him for the setting up of a hospital centre for the treatment of rheumatism and allied complaints; and, in view of the site proposed, whether he will confer with the appropriate Department concerned.
§ Mr. WillinkAt the present stage it would be premature to take the action suggested by my hon. Friend; but I can assure him that the treatment facilities of Droitwich will not be overlooked in considering future developments.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that, from the national standpoint, there is very great need of a permanent cure for rheumatism and that at Droitwich there are, at the present time, great facilities which could be adapted to this purpose?
§ Mr. WillinkI can assure my hon. Friend that the question of rheumatism will be receiving the closest attention from my Department.
Viscountess AstorIs it not true that many people go to Droitwich year after year and still do not get rid of their rheumatism?