HC Deb 05 March 1953 vol 512 c554
31. Mr. W. Wells

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board have refused to establish a fully equipped chest clinic in Walsall; and on what grounds this decision was taken.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I am informed that no decision has yet been taken; the question is still under discussion.

Mr. Wells

Will the Minister give full consideration to such representations as may be made to him by the local authority in this matter, and is he aware that the incidence of tuberculosis in Walsall exceeds the normal proportion?

Mr. Macleod

Yes, I know that the incidence of tuberculosis is high in Walsall, but I always prefer, as a matter of principle, to leave to the regional hospital board the question of priorities.

Mr. Snow

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this particular clinic is necessary also because of the very large urban catchment area just outside Walsall but which, nevertheless, would be served by a clinic in Walsall.

Mr. Macleod

There is, of course, a chest clinic in Walsall. It has not adequate facilities—for example, it has no X-ray apparatus—but an extension of its facilities is at present being discussed with the regional hospital board.