HC Deb 02 June 1959 vol 606 cc13-4
18. Sir J. Duncan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the incidence of tuberculosis in Scotland has been so reduced in recent years that there is now a surplus of specialist doctors, nurses, equipment and accommodation for this purpose; and whether he will authorise an offer in kind, in addition to the United Kingdom allocation of £100,000 in cash, of some of the surplus facilites in Scotland, now released, to the organisers of the International Refugee Year.

Mr. Maclay

The answer to the first part of the Question is, "Yes, Sir." As regards the second part, Her Majesty's Government are willing to consider any specific proposals which the United Kingdom Committee for the World Refugee Year may make to them for the treatment of refugees admitted temporarily to this country for that purpose.

Sir J. Duncan

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I made the suggestion to the Government during the discussions of the Scottish Grand Committee? In view of the statement of the Prime Minister in the City yesterday that the contribution of £100,000 is to be doubled and that he will consider favourably any other form of contribution, will my right hon. Friend, in consultation with the Prime Minister, reconsider this matter on his own without waiting to receive suggestions from the National Committee?

Mr. Maclay

I think it desirable that the United Kingdom Committee for the World Refugee Year should be brought into this matter. I am ready to discuss the question with my hon. Friend as soon as is convenient.