HC Deb 06 February 1947 vol 432 cc1940-1
17. Sir T. Moore

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied that the closed shop policy, as enforced by certain municipal authorities, has not impaired the efficiency of the State-aided hospitals under his jurisdiction.

Mr. Bevan

I know of no decline in the efficiency of municipal or other hospitals—apart from that due to the nationwide shortage of nursing and domestic staff. I have, however, made it clear to health authorities that all other considerations must be secondary to the efficiency and smooth running of their services.

Sir T. Moore

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how these hospitals can retain their happy atmosphere and professional efficiency if nurses are constantly under threat from short-sighted and stupid Socialist local authorities?

Mr. Bevan

I do not know what hospitals the hon. and gallant Gentleman has in mind, but it seems to me that his supplementary question is not designed to help the authorities at all, but to cause mischief.

Sir T. Moore

It is to help the nurses.