HC Deb 19 February 1948 vol 447 cc1309-10
18. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Health how many ex-Servicemen and women are being treated in municipal sanatoria for tuberculosis; and how many are waiting to be admitted.

Mr. Bevan

At 31st December, 1947, the latest date for which particulars are available, there were 2,879 ex-Servicemen and 185 women under institutional treatment for tuberculosis in England and Wales. The numbers on the waiting lists were 329 men and 16 women.

Air-Commodore Harvey

In view of the varying treatment which these ex-Servicemen and women are receiving, will the right hon. Gentleman consult with his colleagues in the Service Departments to ensure that they get better treatment?

Mr. Bevan

I believe that those who are in institutions are getting good treatment. The waiting lists are still very large, but the number of ex-Servicemen and women is not so large, and I think that the hon. and gallant Gentleman will agree that we ought not to give them preference over other members of the civilian population.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

In view of the seriousness of these figures will my right hon. Friend consult the Secretary of State for Scotland to obtain a co-ordinated scheme whereby nursing services will get priority over the demands of women for the Armed Forces?

Mr. Bevan

After the new scheme comes into operation on 5th July there will be such co-ordination.

Mr. Shepherd

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the waiting time for tuberculosis patients?

Mr. Bevan

If the hon. Member will put down a Question I will try to give him a reply.

Mr. Hugh Fraser

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some sanatoria have as many as 40 empty beds, because of the shortage of nurses?

Mr. Bevan

Yes, Sir; the shortage has been acute for some years.