Domiciliary Confinements, Coatbridge

HC Deb 25 July 1950 vol 478 cc237-8

39. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of domiciliary confinements in Coatbridge for 1949; and how many of these were conducted by midwives acting without a doctor in charge.

Miss Herbison

The number of domiciliary confinements in Coatbridge in 1949 was 647. A midwife alone was present at 495; but a doctor was in charge, although not attending the confinement, at all but 31 of these.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Could the hon. Lady say in how many of these cases the midwives were equipped with and trained in the use of analgesia?

Miss Herbison

That is another question.

Mrs. Mann

Were all the 31 women who had midwives aware that they were entitled to a doctor and a specialist if need be?

Miss Herbison

It would be very difficult indeed for me to answer that question. I should imagine that all women in Scotland know that, particularly since 1948, they have a right to a doctor.