HC Deb 29 May 1952 vol 501 cc1656-7
48. Mr. W. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Health why he has not yet replied to the letter from the hon. Member for Hammersmith, South, sent to him on 9th April, regarding the case of Mr. A. Warren and his treatment at the casualty department of the West London Hospital.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I understand that my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary has discussed this matter with the hon. Member, and has written to him again after making further inquiries.

Mr. Williams

Is not the Minister aware that I first raised this question with his Department as early as February this year, and that since that date I have received all kinds of assurances from his hon. Friend, followed by letters containing all kinds of evasions and prevarications—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."]—and that I am somewhat tired of the attitude of his Department in this matter, which smells more than a little?

Mr. Macleod

I have looked into this case myself. All I can say in answer to that rather offensive supplementary is that I entirely repudiate everything contained in it.

Mr. Williams

Since the Minister has not looked into this question how can he know whether the supplementary is offensive or is based on facts? May I ask the Minister, before he makes offensive remarks, that he will look into the question and see whether in the end he would not agree with me?

Mr. Macleod

I have done so, and that is why I consider the supplementary question inaccurate.