HC Deb 23 July 1957 vol 574 cc202-3
20. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that hospital wards are in danger of being closed in West Fife as a result of staff shortages; and what steps he intends to take to avoid such closures.

Mr. J. N. Browne

My right hon. Friend presumes the hon. Member refers to the Dunfermline and West Fife Hospital where there is a temporary shortage of medical staff. Prompt action has been taken to overcome the difficulties and my right hon. Friend assures the hon. Member there is no question of wards being closed.

Mr. Hamilton

Does that mean that this problem is troublesome, too? Has the hon. Gentleman completed the review of the staff position in the West Fife Hospital, which he undertook to make some little while ago? Is he quite satisfied that the position will not get worse in the immediate future?

Mr. Browne

I am satisfied that the position will not get worse in the immediate future. As regards the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, I would ask him to put down a separate Question.