HC Deb 08 March 1960 vol 619 cc222-3
19. Mr. J. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many thefts from out-patients attending the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary have been reported to the police; and what steps have been taken by the hospital authorities to prevent such thefts.

Mr. Galbraith

Since January, 1959, eight thefts have been reported to the police. The South-Eastern Regional Hospital Board has appointed a security officer who is investigating this and other similar problems.

Mr. Taylor

While I appreciate that this is not directly the responsibility of the Secretary of State, may I ask whether the Joint Under-Secretary is anxious, as we all are—I am sure he is—to maintain the great reputation of this hospital? Will he use his influence with the hospital board to ensure that more locker accommodation is provided, particularly in the physiotherapy department?

Mr. Galbraith

I will certainly look into the matter, though we do not want to get this out of perspective. One must remember that the Royal Infirmary deals with over 500,000 out-patients each year.

Mr. Hoy

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us how this record compares with what is done at similar hospitals in other parts of the country?

Mr. Galbraith

I should require notice of that supplementary question.