HC Deb 18 October 1916 vol 86 cc567-8W
Major CHAPPLE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that Guy's Hospital has reduced the cost of alcohol administered to patients from £1,576 per annum to £151; Leeds Infirmary from 6s. 6d. per head per annum to 2d.; and Wandsworth Infirmary from 5s. 3d. per head per annum to one-half of id., he will cause inquiry to be made as to whether the mortality or length of time in hospital has in these institutions increased in consequence, in order that the War Office may be in a position to advise military hospitals, in the interest of economy, rapid convalescence, and the ultimate sobriety of our men?

Mr. FORSTER

Economy in the issue of stimulants and of all other hospital supplies have been receiving the careful attention of a Special Committee, under the Presidency of Major Godfrey Collins, M.P., and the amount of alcohol is limited to what is medicinally necessary.