§ 43. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health approximately how many beds arc now available for tuberculosis patients; and how many such patients are awaiting admission to sanatoria.
§ Mr. WillinkThe latest returns available show the number of beds provided by local authorities in England and Wales for tuberculosis as approximately 29,000, and the number of patients on waiting lists for institutional treatment as approximately 4,500.
§ Mr. SorensenIn view of that very distressing position, could the right hon. and learned Gentleman indicate what steps he has taken and is taking to meet it?
§ Mr. WillinkWe are taking constant steps to meet the difficulty, and have done so over the last few years. In spite of the destruction of many beds and much accommodation, the accommodation is practically the same as before the war. We are taking further steps, and there may be a possibility of using further sections in the emergency hospital service.
§ Mr. MesserIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that Middlesex County Council is now compelled to refuse further admissions to Harefield Sanatorium, and that the situation is serious?
§ Mr. WillinkI entirely agree that the situation is serious. The major difficulty is not so much accommodation as staff in this field, as in many others where the strain is great.
§ Mr. Tom BrownWhat are the steps which the Department is taking?
§ Mr. WillinkIt would not be possible, particularly in reply to a supplementary question, to describe all the things that have been done in the direction of getting medical staff, nursing staff, domestic staff and accommodation to meet this difficulty.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the Minister consulting the Minister of Labour with a view to securing more staff?
§ Mr. WillinkI am surprised that such a question should be asked. Of course, I have consulted the Minister of Labour.