HC Deb 06 May 1954 vol 527 cc571-2
34 Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Minister of Health whether he has now given consideration to the question of reducing waiting-time in hospital out-patients' departments; and what action he has taken.

Mr. Iain Macleod

As I have previously said, I regard this as a matter which is primarily one for local action by the hospital authorities themselves. I am, however, proposing to ask them to review their present arrangements.

Mr. Jeger

Does the Minister realise how widespread are the complaints on this matter? Has his attention been drawn to the "Daily Express" today, which contains a very distressing account of a four-hour wait in a hospital after an appointment had been made? Has his attention been drawn to the "Manchester Evening Chronicle," which conducted investigations among all the hospitals in Manchester, with very revealing results?

Mr. Macleod

There is an enormous variation between the very good, indifferent and very bad. I am following the articles in the "Daily Express," which are continuing. I am not, however, convinced that we can do very much by circular. I think we can do a great deal more by the pressure of public opinion in our different areas.

Mr. P. Roberts

Is it not a fact that the main trouble is the lack of accommodation in many cases, particularly in Sheffield, and could my right hon. Friend not bear this in mind when demands for extra capital grants are made, particularly from the regional areas?

Mr. Macleod

It is often lack of accommodation, but I would say that the main reason is lack of imagination. I hold the view that we can do a great deal more with a few pots of paint than with all the circulars I can issue.

Mr. K. Robinson

Does the Minister recall the very valuable report of the Central Health Services Council on the care and attention of in-patients? Will the Minister consider asking that body if it will make a survey of the out-patient problem in the same way?

Mr. Macleod

I should like to consider that.