HC Deb 25 July 1955 vol 544 c813
20. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Health to what extent, and why, the bulk purchase of medical equipment by his Department for resale to hospitals is declining.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The amount of medical equipment bulk purchased for supply to hospitals has not declined at all. It does fluctuate slightly from year to year, according to the demand.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Minister aware that there are a great many complaints at the moment from hospital authorities which apply to his Department for apparatus and are told to refer direct to the manufacturers? Will he inquire into the situation, because there does seem to be a rising number of complaints by hospital authorities which are unable to get equipment which they were getting, for example, last year?

Mr. Macleod

I am always ready to consider anything which hon. Members draw to my attention, and perhaps the hon. Member will do that. However, the tendency is not downwards. Over the last few years it has been upwards.