§ 4. Sir J. Langford-Holtasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that a man aged 60 years from Shrewsbury, whose name has been given to him, and who is suffering from a serious hernia has been informed by his doctor that he will not be operated on for up to two years; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. SnowI am aware that non-urgent cases may have to wait for admission. Urgent cases are admitted at once.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltWould not the hon. Gentleman agree that a man of this age who has this affliction comes within the realms of urgency? Will he say when he expects that this gentleman will be able to have this surgical treatment?
§ Mr. SnowIf this case is to be designated urgent we require another reference from the general practitioner to the consultant. If this is done and urgency is included in the submission, naturally steps will be taken very quickly.