HC Deb 26 January 1959 vol 598 c698
61 and 62. Mr. Reeves

asked the Minister of Health (1) whether he is now prepared to issue a report on the result of his instructions to doctors on hospital stalls, coming under his authority, as to the amount they are authorised to charge for signing cremation certificates B and C;

(2) if he will make public a statement that he has made in writing to the hon. Member for Greenwich regarding payment in respect of cremation certificate B for persons who die in hospital

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Richard Thompson)

No specific instructions have been given, but no fee is payable to doctors on hospital staffs in respect of the cremation certificate B for persons who die in hospital.

Mr. Reeves

In view of the fact that cases have been reported where such fees have been charged, surely it would be to the advantage of everyone if every hospital were aware of the information that the Minister has now given?

Mr. Thompson

My right hon. and learned Friend will be happy to draw the attention of hospital authorities to this question and to my reply.