HC Deb 28 January 1963 vol 670 cc559-60
3. Dr. D. Johnson

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Medical Services Review Committee, appointed by the Royal College of Surgeons in England and Scotland and other representative professional bodies, has reported that the organisation of the Health Service is basically unsound and that it should be reorganised under area health boards with a high degree of autonomy; and what action he proposes to take in the light of this recommendation.

Mr. Powell

Yes. I shall take note of the views that may be expressed on this Report by all concerned.

Dr. Johnson

All concerned will appreciate the reply of my right hon. Friend. Will he pay attention to the specific recommendation which I have chosen? Does not he agree that decentralisation of this kind may well give the Health Service the fresh impetus which it needs at the present time?

Mr. Powell

This is a very far-reaching recommendation and I am sure that no conclusion can be arrived at until there has been a much more mature expression of opinion on it.

Mr. H. Hynd

Will the Minister also take note of the many other recommendations in this Report, many of which are complementary to the Health Service?

Mr. Powell

I have taken note of all of them.