§ 51. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Minister of Health on what grounds he refuses to disclose the increases in doctors' pay asked for by the British Medical Association.
§ Mr. TurtonBecause, so far, there has been no claim published by the profession. The communication on this subject has been only in the form of a preliminary memorandum sent to my Department and to that of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland. To this a reply has now been sent stating that, in present circumstances, my right hon. Friend and I would not feel justified in giving consideration to any claim for a general increase in medical remuneration.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonBefore we can decide whether that reply was justified or not, can we not be told what the doctors asked for? Why all this secrecy? If trade unionists want something the whole world knows about it; why cannot we be told what the doctors want?
§ Mr. TurtonThere has been no claim published by the profession. As I said last week, I must act in accordance with what I believe is the proper procedure in this matter and not anticipate publication when I have received what is in fact only a draft memorandum.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter again.