HC Deb 10 February 1953 vol 511 cc207-8
25. Sir T. Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the public concern in Ayrshire in regard to the efficiency of the National Health Service, with particular reference to the shortage of trained medical and surgical consultants.

Mr. J. Stuart

If my hon. and gallant Friend will let me have particulars of any deficiencies that have been brought to his notice, I shall be glad to consider them.

Sir T. Moore

While welcoming my right hon. Friend's suggestion, might I ask whether he is not aware that there has been a disturbing number of resignations lately, especially amongst consultants; and is he satisfied that the West of Scotland Regional Board is adequately and effectively dealing with this unsatisfactory situation?

Mr. Stuart

I am assured that the Regional Board are taking proper steps to replace those who have resigned.

Mr. Manuel

Is the Secretary of State aware that in the West of Scotland, and in Ayrshire in particular, since the inauguration of the National Health Service we have had a better full-time consultant service than we ever had previously, and that there were more part-time people; and that the doctors generally, the general practitioners, have expressed to me personally their satisfaction at the better service now available since the National Health Service was started?