HC Deb 07 March 1955 vol 538 c29
38. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Health what steps are being taken to improve the stocks held by blood banks by hospitals in North-East England.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I understand that the cold weather of the last fortnight has led to a falling off in the response of donors asked to attend bleeding sessions, and that local publicity to counteract this has been undertaken. So far, stocks have been adequate to meet all demands.

Mr. Willey

In view of the fact that the regional officer called attention to the position as being very grave, and suggested that the position in the North-East England Region is worse than that of other regions, will he keep this matter under review and see what response he obtains?

Mr. Macleod

Yes. I shall look into that matter. I saw a report in a local paper—about which the hon. Member probably knows—saying that the blood banks were more or less dry. It is worth assuring people in the area that that is not true. We have what I am told are adequate stocks, and we always try to keep a safety margin. I will, however, review the matter in the light of what he has said.

Mr. Chetwynd

Can the Minister say what steps are taken to see that adequate liaison exists between this and other regions in cases of shortage?

Mr. Macleod

I shall look into that matter, although I am informed that there is not a shortage, and arrangements exist by which, in an emergency, supplies could be obtained.