HC Deb 13 December 1954 vol 535 c1362
15. Mr. Wilkins

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in mental hospitals the daily diet allowance per patient is 2s. 5d., and in general hospitals 3s. 5d.; that, owing to increased costs, it is impossible to provide an adequate balanced diet within this limit; and if he will frame his Estimates for next year on a basis more in keeping with the current cost of food.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I will certainly take into account the effect of food prices in considering the estimates for the hospital service for next year, but no daily diet allowance per patient is fixed centrally, although in some instances a daily rate has been indicated by the regional board to help to secure that expenditure as a whole does not exceed their allocation.

Mr. Wilkins

Can the Minister say whether the regional boards have, or have not, to seek his approval for the cost of diet per patient? Are the boards free agents in the matter of the amount of money spent on the diet of the patients?

Mr. Macleod

Yes, they are. I am aware of the letter from the South-West Regional Board, which I think the hon. Member has in mind, but I indicated neither approval nor disapproval.