HC Deb 25 April 1910 vol 17 cc217-8W
Sir WILLIAM COLLINS

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is prepared to sanction the co-operation of the police in the manner recommended by the Departmental Committee of 1906–9 in the event of the London County Council establishing a rapid ambulance service, summonable by telephone, in accordance with their powers under the Metropolitan Ambulances Act of 1909?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have not any information as to the intentions of the London County Council in this matter, but I need not say I shall be happy to give my best consideration to any proposal that may be put before me with every desire to sanction, as far as may be practicable, the cooperation of the police.

Mr. HAY MORGAN

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that hand-stretchers are still used by the Metropolitan Police for conveying persons who have suffered serious injuries to the hospital; and whether he will see that the supply of motor ambulances is increased so as to avoid the necessity of resorting to the use of hand-stretchers in cases where time may be a matter of life or death to the person injured?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Hand - stretchers have not been used for this purpose by the Metropolitan Police for many years, but wheeled litters of an approved pattern are so used. The London County Council last year obtained Parliamentary powers for the provision of motor ambulances, and I understand this question is now engaging the attention of the Council.