42. Dr. Russell Thomasasked the Minister of Health how many doctors he intends to make State-salaried officials on the initiation of the proposed National Health Scheme.
§ Mr. Willink.I cannot accept the implication of the Question. If the hon. Member will look at the White Paper, he will see that there is no intention of turning doctors into State-salaried officials, and that, even where—as in the health centres—remuneration by salary is mentioned, it is suggested as one among other possible alternatives.
Dr. ThomasBut in view of the fact that the White Paper authorises the Minister to establish health centres and State-salaried doctors, if he considers the public interest demands it, does not that mean that this Government, or a future Government, can create a State-paid bureaucratic service?
§ Mr. WillinkNo, Sir. My hon. Friend's conception of the White Paper is very far from the mark.
43. Dr. Russell Thomasasked the Minister of Health how many doctors will be required to undertake the proposed National Health Scheme.
§ Mr. WillinkThere is no reliable means of assessing this at present, but I have no reason to doubt that, when doctors return from the Forces, the number of doctors available will be sufficient to enable us to make a good start with the new Health Service.
Dr. ThomasAs there are over 70,000 doctors on the British register, and not half of that number are required for this service, does the Minister remember the ruthless remark of his Parliamentary 924 Secretary in the health Debate, when the hon. Lady said that those who were unemployed could retire, or go to the Colonies?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Member is giving information, not asking for it.
§ Mr. GallacherCould the Minister not consider abolishing the medical men and getting on with the health service?
44. Dr. Russell Thomasasked the Minister of Health if he can now say when he intends to introduce a Bill in regard to a National Health Scheme.
§ Mr. WillinkNo, Sir.
Dr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that, if he should bring in his Bill, based on the proposals of the White Paper there are those of us in this House who are prepared to combine to fight the Bill, Clause by Clause?
§ 57. Mr. James Griffithsasked the Minister of Health if he will consult with the representatives of workmen's medical aid societies before deciding upon the provisions of the legislation based on the White Paper on the health services.
§ Mr. WillinkYes, Sir.
§ Mr. W. J. BrownWould the Minister also consult representatives of workmen's hospitals, such as the Manor House Hospital at Hampstead?
§ Mr. WillinkI shall be glad to consider that suggestion.