HC Deb 15 February 1960 vol 617 cc947-8
33. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health when the Professional and Technical B Whitley Council began their current consideration of the wages and conditions of hospital maintenance staffs; and when a recommendation is expected.

Mr. Walker-Smith

The claim currently under consideration in respect of hospital engineers was submitted by the staff side in January, 1959, and rejected by the management side, after making inquiries, in June, 1959. The Industrial Court, in November, 1959, awarded increases of about 5 per cent. but left certain matters for further discussion between the two Sides. As agreement has not been reached the Court is being asked to determine the difference.

A claim for increased salaries for hospital building supervisors was made on 1st December, 1959, and was discussed at a joint meeting on 12th February, 1960.

Mr. Robinson

Does an arbitration award require the Minister's approval? If it does, will the right hon. and learned Gentleman give an assurance that he will give that approval promptly or make a decision promptly?

Mr. Walker-Smith

If it requires my approval—and I should not like to say off the cuff whether or no it does—it will have it.

35. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Health to what extent he contemplates modifying the system of accountancy as it affects hospitals under his control.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I have not in mind at present any substantial modification of hospitals' accounting arrangements.

Mr. Roberts

Does not the Minister agree that the present system does not offer any inducement to prudent spending? Does he further agree that if a hospital wants to purchase any expensive apparatus or erect additional buildings the present system does not allow it to carry forward any moneys from one year to the next?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I am afraid that that is a matter which is rather beyond the scope of hospital accounting procedure. The point made by the hon. Member is one which is related to our constitutional system here of annual accounting for public moneys which, as he will know, derives in turn from Parliamentary responsibility for moneys.