HC Deb 13 June 1950 vol 476 cc10-1
18. Captain Duncan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is satisfied that adequate consultations with the board of management for Angus hospitals took place before the numbers of the board were reduced from 23 to 21.

Mr. McNeil

This decision was taken by the Eastern Regional Hospital Board, who in the circumstances were not legally bound to undertake consultations on the point.

Captain Duncan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the Schedule to the Act there is provision for consultation? Why was there no consultation in this case which deprived the Angus Hospital Management Committee of one member of the board?

Mr. McNeil

I think there were consultations in this case. I am asked whether the consultations were adequate but I do not express an opinion as to that. The Schedule, according to my recollection, refers to the filling of vacancies, but here vacancies were not filled.

Captain Duncan

As this cannot be decided by Question and answer, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.