HC Deb 08 March 1951 vol 485 cc653-4
40. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Health what action he proposes to take, in view of the phraseology and substance of the reply received by him from the Durham County Council to his letter to them of 17th November, 1950, on the subject of that authority's decision to compel persons engaged in the Health Service in the employ of that authority either to join a trade union or professional association or terminate their employment.

Mr. Marquand

No occasion has arisen calling for action by me and I think this matter had now best be allowed to rest.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the right hon. Gentleman's acceptance of the unprecedented snub administered to his Department by this local authority due to his recognition of the fact that the policy which he deprecates in that letter, but which they none the less pursue, is an essential part of Socialist totalitarianism?

Mr. Marquand

My concern is to see that nothing detrimental to the Health Services is done and I am quite satisfied that nothing of that kind is occurring.

Mr. Jennings

Is it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman and the Government are afraid of this situation and will not stand up to it?