HC Deb 13 May 1957 vol 570 cc26-7
44. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health whether he will make a statement on the effect of the changes in local government finance upon local authority health services and their development.

Mr. Vosper

I would ask the hon. Member to await the White Paper which, as stated in a reply he gave on the 18th March, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government proposes to lay when the discussions with the local authorities about the proposed changes in local government finance have been concluded.

Mr. Blenkinsop

In view of the right hon. Gentleman's own statements that he wishes to give special priority to local government expenditure for health purposes, how does he intend to secure this if the proposals of the Minister of Housing and Local Government are carried through? Will the right hon. Gentleman not secure an invitation to the next weekend part at Chequers?

Mr. Vosper

I do not want to anticipate my right hon. Friend's White Paper. I see no reason why a general grant should be to the disadvantage of local authority health and welfare services.