HC Deb 14 June 1955 vol 542 cc405-6
19. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if helicopters are now available for urgent medical cases from the Scottish islands.

Mr. J. Stuart

Discussions are still proceeding on the possibility of an arrangement for the use of naval helicopters in extreme medical emergencies, and I hope to be able to make a statement soon.

Mr. Grimond

Can the right hon. Gentleman say where the nearest helicopter might be based?

Mr. Stuart

I am afraid I cannot do so without notice. I shall have to consult the Admiralty on the subject.

Sir D. McCallum

Can my right hon. Friend say what would be the procedure in an urgent case? Does the doctor ring up St. Andrew's House, or what is the procedure to obtain a helicopter?

Mr. Stuart

I should have thought that it would have been simpler and quicker to ring up the base where the helicopter is stationed.