§ 15. Mr. Carmichaelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he intends to take to provide hospital accommodation and care for the aged, sick and infirm and reduce the long waiting list which exists in many parts of Scotland.
§ Mr. J. StuartThe hospital authorities are doing everything possible, within the limits of their resources and having regard to other pressing needs, to provide additional accommodation for patients in this category. I know that the local authorities for their part appreciate the need for more residential accommodation for infirm people not requiring hospital care, and also the importance of domiciliary nursing and other services in making it possible for many infirm people to remain in their own homes.
§ Mr. CarmichaelI accept that the local authorities are doing a marvellous job for the aged people. But can the Minister tell me what schemes are in operation? So far as I can gather, once a person gets to a certain age and is sick no one wants anything to do with him, even in hospital. Can the Minister give any information about the type of scheme operated by regional boards in the country?
§ Mr. StuartThe regional boards are endeavouring to make the best use of existing facilities by adopting more intensive methods of treatment. Also, we wish to organise home aid or help so that people may be looked after in their own homes instead of occupying hospital beds.