HC Deb 19 December 1955 vol 547 cc1630-1
22. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health if he has yet approved the temporary extension of the casualty department at Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham; in what way this extension will relieve the outpatient department; and when he proposes to give priority to the major schemes considered necessary to relieve the present overcrowding of both casualty and outpatient departments at this hospital.

Mr. Iain Macleod

Yes, Sir. Four treatment cubicles, relatives' waiting rooms and other facilities will be provided. In reply to the last part of the Question, I am unable to add to my reply to the hon. Member on 31st October.

Mr. Yates

Is the Minister aware that the improvement to the casualty department, for which I am grateful, can in no way possibly affect the outpatient department? As this has been most unsatisfactory for the last 18 years, I wonder if the right hon. Gentleman will make an inquiry of the management of the hospital, as he will find that what I have said is correct? Why should this hospital be regarded as a Cinderella?

Mr. Macleod

I will certainly look into that question, but I should have thought that what I have said about the casualty department would be bound to relieve pressure on the outpatient department.

23. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that delay occurs in obtaining beds for children suffering from diphtheria or suspected diphtheria in Birmingham; and if he will take steps to see that adequate arrangements are made to prevent any delay in future.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I am not aware of any such delay, but if the hon. Member has any case in mind and sends me particulars I will certainly look into it.

Mr. Yates

I will certainly do so. May I ask if the right hon. Gentleman will examine the arrangements for instructing doctors in such cases, because they have been rather held up in some cases, and that is rather serious in infectious cases?

Mr. Macleod

I have been in touch with the regional hospital board and it does not know of any delay in this field. If the hon. Member has evidence, perhaps he will send it to me.

Dr. Stross

May I ask whether there have been any cases of diphtheria in the past twelve months in the Birmingham area, and, if so, how many?

Mr. Macleod

I cannot say without notice, but the figures for the country last year reached a level of only 266 cases notified against 41,000 in 1942. There has been a dramatic drop.