§ 44. Mr. Hewlettasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether there are any statistics to show the number of men of the Merchant Navy who have needed hospital treatment as the result of enemy action at sea but who have not been able to obtain it in military hospitals; and what steps are taken to ensure that these sufferers are properly tended.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)I am not aware that any members of the Merchant 2393 Navy have been unable to obtain hospital treatment, when they have needed it as a result of enemy action, and no complaints have been brought to my notice. If my hon. Friend knows of any case and will let me have particulars, I will gladly cause inquiries to be made. There are comprehensive arrangements both at home and abroad to ensure that hospital treatment is available for all merchant seamen who require it.