HC Deb 03 March 1949 vol 462 c515
21. Commander Maitland

asked the Minister of Health why it is not considered feasible to establish facilities for physiotherapy at Spilsby, Lincolnshire.

Mr. Bevan

Shortage of trained staff makes it impossible at present to provide physiotherapy for out-patients at every hospital.

Commander Maitland

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the very high cost of sending quite a large number of patients who need this treatment to Boston to get it there? Will he take the very earliest opportunity of providing facilities at Spilsby?

Mr. Bevan

There is a shortage of physiotherapists at the moment and that is a limiting factor.

Sir Ian Fraser

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider using private practitioners, especially ex-Service men in their own homes, instead of clinics?

Mr. Bevan

I think the hon. Member is to see me towards the end of the month on a deputation on this matter and perhaps he will await that interview.