23. Mr. Amoryasked the Minister of Health to what extent the estimated cost of about £8 million for the Ambulance Service for the current year is likely to be exceeded, and what steps he is taking to ensure greater economy and efficiency in the use of this service.
§ Mr. BevanI trust it will not be exceeded at all, but I am about to put before the bodies concerned certain suggestions to secure greater economy and efficiency in the use of the Service.
Mr. AmoryWill not the Minister agree that there is a certain divided responsibility which makes these matters rather difficult in this respect? Doctors and hospitals order, and the county councils pay.
§ Mr. BevanThere is a certain divided responsibility, but I am not sure at the moment it is leading to additional expense. However, we are making inquiries.