HC Deb 24 June 1920 vol 130 c2394W
Mr. WASON

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware of the hard lot of Poor Law medical officers in the Highlands and Islands; and if it is possible for him to make a further grant out of the Highlands and Islands Relief Act, a measure which was specially passed to afford poor parishes adequate relief before the War, and which is infinitely more needed now?

Mr. MUNRO

I am aware that Parish medical officers in the Highlands and Islands perform a public service often in circumstances of great difficulty. As regards their financial position, I understand that a great improvement, particularly in the less remunerative practices, has been effected by the Highlands and Islands (Medical Service) Grant Act, 1913. The grants payable to practitioners under that Act have been increased to meet conditions caused by the War. I shall be glad to look into any particular case which my hon. Friend may wish to lay before me.