HC Deb 02 December 1968 vol 774 cc1004-5
2. Mr. Maurice Macmillan

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is considering methods by which the proposed area health boards will be able to raise funds independent of the central Government.

Mr. Crossman

No, Sir.

Mr. Macmillan

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that he has to find a method of getting more money into the Health Service and health generally other than by taxation? Secondly, has he any comment on the dissatisfaction which is felt at the reduced rôle which, apparently, is to be played by voluntary bodies and voluntary organisations under the Green Paper, particularly in connection with finance?

Mr. Crossman

I have just this comment to make. The Green Paper, published by my predecessor, was a Green Paper to which I am in no wise committed, as I have to repeat for the third time. As for the financing of the Health Service in general, I would have thought it true to say that there are other methods already at the disposal of the Health Service than taxation, and we can, of course, consider whether they should be improved. As for the rôle of the voluntary organisation, I would like to support the hon. Gentleman in re-emphasising the importance of its being in no wise reduced by the existence of the Health Service.

Mr. Doughty

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that voluntary assistance to the hospitals of the Health Service has been very much hampered and impeded by the wholesale dismissal of hospital house committees? Is he aware that the Caterham and District Hospital House Committee, which had amenity funds to help the Health Service, has been summarily disbanded, in my view quite improperly? If I write with details to the right hon. Gentleman, will he look into it as a matter of urgency?

Mr. Crossman

Yes, I am perfectly prepared to look into it; and if the hon. and learned Member puts down a Question I will answer it.

Mr. Pavitt

While I agree that it is wrong for the area boards to raise money in this way, will my right hon. Friend consider further the possibility of local community activities which would help in our endeavours?

Mr. Crossman

I did not say that it was either right or wrong. I said that we were not committed to the Green Paper or to the organisation therein proposed.