HC Deb 14 May 1962 vol 659 cc911-2
26. Mr. Holt

asked the Minister of Health what representations he has received from Bolton Corporation concerning the inadequacy of arrangements for co-ordinating those health services for which the corporation are responsible with those which are the responsibility of the Manchester Regional Hospital Board.

Miss Pitt

A resolution urging automatic representation of local health authorities on hospital management committees.

Mr. Holt

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the local health authority is most concerned about the day-to-day co-ordination between its health services and those provided by the hospitals? It feels that it should know about the deliberations of the hospital management committee since it is the largest local health authority in the area. Is the hon. Lady aware that there is widespread dissatisfaction at present over the composition of a lot of hospital management committees and will she look into this whole matter and, perhaps, have a Departmental inquiry to see how this dissatisfaction can be removed? This is a matter of great irritation and embarrassment to many of the excellent people at present serving on these committees?

Miss Pitt

It would need legislation to amend the existing pattern, but under the National Health Service Act, regional hospital boards are required to consult local authorities, among other bodies, and I think that this is the right way to do it. We choose people because of the contribution that they can make and not because of the specific interests which they represent. The hon. Gentleman will know that in his own area, two Bolton councillors are, in fact, members of the hospital management committee, although their names were not suggested by the council. The medical officer of health is also a member of the hospital management committee.

Mr. Holt

But the local health authority has repeatedly sent nominations which have constantly been turned down over a number of years.

Miss Pitt

Not turned down. It is impossible to make room for all the people suggested to the regional boards. I emphasise that this is the responsibility of the regional board and not of my right hon. Friend. Wherever someone can be appointed who can bring practical knowledge to the work of the hospital management committee, that is taken into account.