HC Deb 20 March 1967 vol 743 cc1037-8
42. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Minister of Health whether he will issue an instruction to regional hospital boards to make more information available to the Press.

Mr. K. Robinson

I have already emphasised to regional hospital boards the importance of good relations with the Press on all matters of public interest.

Mr. Goodhart

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that at this month's meeting of the Bromley Hospital Management Committee no fewer than 15 items on the agenda were marked "Not for publication"? Can that really be right?

Mr. Robinson

I have gone into the matter. I understand that the Bromley Group Hospital Management Committee has for many years endeavoured to give the fullest possible facilities to the Press, but inevitably there are items from time to time which must, at any rate for the time being, remain confidential. I do not believe that the number was as great as that quoted by the hon. Gentleman. I can only repeat that my general advice to hospital management committees is as in my original Answer.

Mr. Pavitt

Will my right hon. Friend seek to use the services of the Press to get good notices about regional hospital boards well publicised? It seems to me at the moment that it is only when there is adverse criticism that the Press take the matter up.

Mr. Robinson

I very much agree with my hon. Friend. I only wish I knew how.