HC Deb 04 March 1964 vol 690 cc1297-8
30. Dr. Dickson Mabon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the recommendations of the Wright Committee.

Mr. Stodart

My right hon. Friend is considering the Committee's recommendations in consultation with regional hospital boards, the universities, the Royal colleges and the medical profession. I cannot yet say when a decision will be announced.

Dr. Mabon

Do the Government in principle welcome this Report? Is the Under-Secretary aware that the waiting list of patients is in direct relation ship to the number of consultants? Is he aware that according to the Wright Committee 150 vacancies are in existence in the Western Regional Hospital Board area which is the worst area for N.H.S. patients waiting to be seen by consultants?

Mr. Stodart

All these matters have been noted and are forming the subject of consultation.