HC Deb 17 May 1950 vol 475 cc1205-6
46. Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Minister of Defence if he will arrange with the British Transport Commission for Service men and women travelling on leave from hospital to be provided with a seat on long rail journeys.

The Minister of Defence (Mr. Shin-well)

Service and railway authorities already endeavour to ensure that Service patients travelling on leave, whose condition requires it, are provided with a seat. If the hon. Member has any evidence that further steps are necessary, I should be glad to consider it.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Is the Minister aware that I have evidence of men in my constituency who have to travel from the South of England to the North-east of Scotland and have to stand up all night in a corridor when going on leave from hospital? Can he suggest what these Service patients should do?

Mr. Shinwell

If the hon. Member will let me have details of that case I will make inquiries. It may be that improvements are required, and I will do my best to see that they are brought about.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that to inform him of particulars of individual cases does not help? What is needed is a general directive to members of the Services as to what steps they should take when leaving, hospital to go on sick leave.

Mr. Shinwell

If the hon. Member supplies the particulars, I may be able to reach a general conclusion.