HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2064-5
22. Dr. Russell Thomas

asked the Minister of Health how many of the doctors appointed to negotiate with him before the publication of the White Paper on National Health Services serve, and have served during the last two years, on advisory committees appointed by his Ministry; and how many serve, and have served during the same period, on advisory committees of other Ministries.

Mr. Willink

With regard to my own advisory committees I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which my predecessor gave him on the same point on 21st October last. I am afraid I have not enough information to answer in regard to the advisory committees of other Departments.

Dr. Thomas

Seeing that that answer was that there were 13 of these advisers to the Minister, will the Minister say whether these negotiator advisers are paid or, if not, whether they are living in expectation of glory and honour to come, which is the general impression?

Mr. Willink

No members of my medical advisory committee are paid as such.

23. Dr. Russell Thomas

asked the Minister of Health if the Council or any executive body of the British Medical Association act in a general way in an advisory capacity to his Ministry.

Mr. Willink

It is my practice to consult the British Medical Association on matters affecting, the professional interests which it represents. But neither the Council nor any of its executive bodies acts in an advisory capacity to my Department in the manner suggested by my hon. Friend's question. That is the province of my Medical Advisory Committee and other special advisory bodies constituted by me for the purpose.

Dr. Thomas

In view of the fact that it is asserted by those who are well informed that the negotiators are known to have been responsible for part of the White Paper, does my right hon. and learned Friend think that to speak of them as advisory is putting rather mildly this very unhealthy alliance?

Mr. Willink

No member of the British Medical Association was responsible for any part of the White Paper.

Sir W. Smithers

Will my right hon. and learned Friend inquire how long it is since the council of the British Medical Association was re-elected, and whether it represents up-to-date medical opinion?

Mr. Willink

That seems to be an entirely different question. If it is put down, I shall endeavour to answer it.