HC Deb 20 February 1963 vol 672 cc424-5
12. Mr. J. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has for dealing with the problem of infant mortality in Glasgow.

Mr. Brooman-White

Action has already been taken to bring the hospital maternity bed provision up to the recommended standard this year, to establish a system of priorities for hospital admission and to improve co-ordination between the Health Service authorities and the family doctors. Social and environmental factors are very important and my right hon. Friend is co-operating with the corporation in an analysis of the causes of death under one year which may help to show where further action can be taken most effectively.

Mr. Bennett

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there has been an increase in the infant mortality figures in Glasgow in 1962 as against 1961 and this is a matter of very real concern? May we have an assurance that he will do all possible to speed up co-operation between himself and Glasgow Corporation to remedy this very serious problem?

Mr. Brooman-White

As I say, I do not think it is a question of availability of beds, but possibly of the best use of beds. I shall certainly look into the problem.