HC Deb 31 May 1945 vol 411 cc346-7
28. 28. Mr. Hammersley

asked the Minister of Health whether steps can now be taken to deal with the large number of tuberculosis patients in Middlesex whose treatment is being delayed owing to insufficient hospital accommodation.

Mr. Willink

The problem to which my hon. Friend refers is not confined to Middlesex and is receiving my constant and anxious attention. I am taking all possible steps, in close collaboration with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service, to ease the situation, but great difficulties are caused by the present demands on building labour and material and the dearth of nursing and domestic staff.

Mr. Hammersley

Are we to understand that there will be some rapid amelioration of the situation?

Mr. Willink

I hope the amelioration will be progressive, but I cannot promise that it will be rapid.

Viscountess Astor

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there are several evacuated American military hospitals which have been turned over to the military and which would make excellent sanatoria?

Mr. Willink

I shall be glad to look into that.