HC Deb 10 November 1970 vol 806 cc181-2
11. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the total number of resident doctors' quarters in the 26 London teaching hospitals and the numbers of these allocated to married accommodation.

Mr. Alison

A total of 1,229, of which 184 are allocated as married accommodation.

Mr. Pavitt

Is not that a ridiculously low proportion? Will the hon. Gentleman look again at the plight of the junior hospital doctors, who seem to be plagued by an antiquated Victorian attitude that they are not entitled to marry?

Mr. Alison

Good married accommodation is being provided in new hospitals, and my Department has made every effort to advise and encourage hospitals to provide such accommodation in existing or adaptable premises.

Dr. Summerskill

Does the Minister agree that one important factor in stemming the continued emigration of doctors is to offer them married accommodation so that they are not deterred from taking up resident hospital posts in this country?

Mr. Alison

I note the hon. Lady's point, and repeat that we are specifically making provision for good married accommodation in new hospitals.