HC Deb 22 January 1953 vol 510 cc383-4
4. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Health to what extent milk powder is to be used instead of fresh milk in bulk cooking for the Dartford group of hospitals; and why this change of policy is being made.

Mr. lain Macleod

I am informed that as one of several economies the management committee has decided that milk powder should, where practicable, be used in bulk cooking at the discretion of the hospital catering officers. This has, in fact, already been done in the past, and no substantial change in consumption is anticipated.

Mr. Dodds

Is the Minister not aware that it is an instruction that skimmed milk powder should be used instead of liquid milk and that it will cut the milk bill in half? Does he appreciate that this is one of the meanest decisions made by any Government Department in recent years? How can it help patients, who, normally, are only in hospital 10 days instead of two or three weeks, to make milk puddings from skimmed milk? Local feeling is very strong on this matter and I appeal to the Minister to alter this decision, about which even Scrooge would have blushed if he had had to put it into force.

Mr. Macleod

Nearly all the premises of the hon. Member are incorrect. It is not my decision. It is a matter which has been discussed between the regional catering officer and the appropriate hospital management committee.

Mr. Hamilton

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the annual saving resulting from this economy?

Mr. Macleod

Not in terms of money. Five-and-a-half per cent. of the milk used in this hospital at the last check was manufactured powdered milk, and it is not anticipated that the percentage will be considerably increased.

Mr. Hastings

How much cheaper is whole milk in powder form compared with that same milk in liquid form?

Mr. Macleod

If the hon. Member wishes for a detailed answer to that question, perhaps he will put it on the Order Paper.

Mr. Dodds

In view of the difference in the information which the House has been given, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment and really produce the evidence.