HC Deb 19 March 1953 vol 513 cc197-8
16. Mr. P. Roberts

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that the teaching hospitals in London receive revenue grants per bed at a rate approximately 40 per cent. greater than the similar grants for the Sheffield teaching hospitals, he will re-allocate the money available in order that the Sheffield teaching hospitals shall receive a more equitable proportion of the money available for teaching hospitals.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I do not accept the assumption underlying this Question. The grants made to teaching hospitals must have regard to the current cost of maintaining beds, which is substantially higher in London than in Sheffield.

Mr. Roberts

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this is a national service, and that although Sheffield has done extremely well, it is disproportionately handicapped by lack of funds? Will he be prepared to receive a deputation in order to consider the question of allocations for these teaching hospitals?

Mr. Macleod

The real reason for the disparity is that traditionally the London teaching hospitals have many specialised departments and have special staff ratios. I have not the slightest intention of interfering with that position. I shall be very glad to consider the question of receiving a deputation, and perhaps my hon. Friend will speak to me about it.