HC Deb 01 April 1957 vol 568 c5
15. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Minister of Health what arrangements are now being made to deal with the situation which will be created by the proposed withdrawal of doctors from the National Health Service.

Mr. Vosper

At the moment. I do not wish to add anything to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in answer to Questions on 12th March.

Mr. Hynd

Did the right hon. Gentleman never learn as a Boy Scout to be prepared, and is it not very desirable, in view of the serious effects which will arise if this dispute is allowed to develop, that something should be prepared now to meet that contingency?

Mr. Vosper

I have read that it is suggested that doctors may withdraw from the National Health Service on 2nd October. My right hon. Friend said that he would make a further statement in due course, and the hon. Gentleman could deduce that that would probably be before 2nd October.

Mr. K. Robinson

Would the Minister convey to the leading members of the medical profession that this suggestion, in the view of most people, including many who are sympathetic to the doctors' claims, is both irresponsible and ridiculous?