HC Deb 03 July 1967 vol 749 cc1250-1
8. Mr. Moyle

asked the Minister of Health what action he now proposes to take on the future control of the ambulance services; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. K. Robinson

I am now studying the memoranda sent to me by the Association of Municipal Corporations, the County Councils Association and the Greater London Council.

Mr. Moyle

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his earlier decision to await the report of the Royal Commission on Local Government is causing considerable anxiety and uncertainty amongst the ambulance service with regard to pay, working conditions, and future implementation of his own report on the training of the ambulance services? Would he not agree that this uncertainty could be resolved by agreeing now that the ambulance services should remain with the local authorities?

Mr. Robinson

This is not a simple matter, and a proper review of all the considerations is bound to take some time, but in considering what final decision I should reach I am taking full account of all the views put to me, including those of the Royal Commission on Local Government.