HC Deb 05 May 1949 vol 464 c1194
18. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Health what regulations he has made with regard to the payment of charges for the maintenance of patients who come from the Channel Islands, in hospitals in this country after 4th July, 1948; how many such patients have been treated; what they pay in contributions or taxes; and what has been the cost of this service to the latest available date.

Mr. Bevan

No regulations have been made; no separate records have been kept of Channel Islanders using the Service, nor can any estimate be made of the cost of treating them. Channel Islanders resident in this country pay contributions and taxes in the usual way.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the fact that the policy of this Government has brought this country to the edge of a precipice, does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that we cannot afford to give free health services to the whole world and finance the "Kingdom of Bevan" in this country?

Mr. Bevan

I have not yet heard that the Channel Islands are co-terminus with the whole world.

Mr. Piratin

Would not the Minister consider consulting with the authorities in the Channel Islands with a view to their introducing a health scheme similar to his?