HC Deb 15 July 1954 vol 530 cc678-9
30. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health how many plans for the provision of health centres have been submitted to him for approval.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

Eight schemes have been submitted and approved, including four centres now in operation, and 12 others are under consideration.

Mr. Blenkinsop

With the valuable experience we have gained during the last few years is it not time to give further encouragement to local authorities, especially in the new housing estates?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

There are some centres being opened which are not local health authority centres, and provided a genuine need was established my right hon. Friend would favourably consider any project. As the hon. Gentleman is aware, opinion is by no means unanimous on the subject of health centres, which are still in the experimental stage.

Mr. Blenkinsop

In view of the developments that have taken place, the recommendations particularly of the Cohen Committee and the valuable experience we have had, is it not time to ease up on the restrictions which inevitably were in force in the early days?

Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

Is the Minister aware that in Barton-on-Humber, in my constituency, where conditions are particularly favourable for the establishment of such a centre, the Minister so far has not looked favourably upon such a scheme?

Mr. Marquand

Can the hon. Lady say how many of these applications have been received from the new towns?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

Not without notice.