§ 38. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Transport when he is going to remove the embargo that is preventing essential supplies of bandages, etc., reaching hospitals in Maidstone.
§ Mr. BarnesWhile the present bad weather and shortage of coal persist it is necessary to continue the embargo. Small packages of medical supplies can be forwarded by passenger train; urgent movements of larger consignments by freight 783 train can be arranged by my Department if application is made to the regional officer of the Ministry of Health.
§ Mr. BossomDoes not the right hon. Gentleman know, from his own correspondence with me, that this embargo was in operation before the bad weather came? Cannot he take that embargo off, and allow these supplies to reach the hospitals? It is ridiculous.
§ Mr. BarnesI have indicated how the need can be met in other directions in regard to small consignments. The position with regard to the embargo has become more difficult since the hon. Member communicated with me.
§ Mr. BarnesNo, I cannot.
§ Air-Commodore Harveyis the right hon. Gentleman aware that if the suggestion he has made is carried out, it will take much too long to meet the needs of the hospitals?