HC Deb 30 November 1949 vol 470 cc1229-31
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Woodburn)

I beg to move, in page 13, line 45, to leave out "and."

During the Committee stage of the Bill there was considerable discussion on the necessity for the inclusion on the Council of a person with financial experience. I considered the point, and the Amendments I am moving are with a view to meeting the wishes of the Committee as expressed during the Committee stage.

Commander Galbraith (Glasgow, Pollok)

I should like to thank the right hon. Gentleman for his consideration of the matter and for bringing forward this Amendment.

Amendment agreed to.

Further Amendment made: In page 14, line 4, at end, insert:

"and (e) a person or persons with financial experience."—[Mr. Woodburn.]

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read the Third time."

7.15 p.m.

Mr. Woodburn

It is almost unnecessary to say anything at this stage except to mention that on the Committee stage I was asked to give special consideration to the question of "fever nurse" including a nurse with tuberculosis experience. I have been unable to alter the Bill in any way, but I shall take care to ensure that the members do include a person with recent tuberculosis experience. I hope that will meet the wishes of the hon. Member who raised the matter.

7.16 p.m.

Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore (Ayr Burghs)

I wish to refer only to one point which has not been specifically dealt with either today or in Committee. Like the Criminal Justice Bill this Bill will depend largely upon its administration for its success. One of the ways by which our nurses can be made happy and contented and therefore efficient is by the food that they receive. I think that the right hon. Gentleman will agree that it is a matter of grave importance. According to my information, which I have received from nurses who have received their training in the respective hospitals to which I shall refer, the food is disgraceful. That applies to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, which as we all know is one—

Mr. Woodburn

May I submit that the question of food in hospitals is not a question of the training of nurses which is dealt with in this Bill. If the hon. and gallant Member has any complaints of the kind to which he refers he had better submit them to me for verification and not make a public statement which, in the absence of the necessary verification, might slander someone.

Mr. Speaker

I was wondering very much what this matter had to do with the Bill. I think that it has nothing to do with it.

Sir T. Moore

If I am wrong I will withdraw, but I do not withdraw the allegation because it was made to me by a nurse. I do not intend to pursue the matter as you, Mr. Speaker, have ruled that it is out of Order. I considered that food was such an essential part of a nurse's happiness and contentment that it should be regarded as part of her training, but, of course, I accept your Ruling and will not pursue the matter further.

I can only say that I believe that this is a good Bill and is well intended. I hope that it will have all the success which this House desires it to have.