HC Deb 31 March 1955 vol 539 cc553-4
74. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Minister of Health what steps he will take to secure improved co-ordination of the different Departments, local authorities and voluntary agencies concerned with the social and human problems of old age.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Patricia Hornsby-Smith)

My right hon. Friend keeps under constant consideration any possibilities that arise of improving the co-ordination, which has already been substantially achieved in many areas, between the health services provided under the National Health Service Acts and the welfare services provided under the National Assistance Acts and of facilitating the link-up with services provided by other Departments and voluntary agencies. He is at present discussing with the associations representing local authorities the issue of a circular containing certain further suggestions directed to this object.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

But is the hon. Lady aware that there are still far too many cases in which good men and women, merely on account of age, are pushed out of jobs which they are quite capable of carrying on? [HON. MEMBERS: " Hear, hear."] Will she bear in mind that I originally put this Question down to the Prime Minister. Would she at least see that the appropriate Departments consult with the Prime Minister on this subject in the immediate future?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The hon. and gallant Gentleman will be aware that my right hon. Friend is concerned with the welfare and ailments but not with the employment of the aged.