§ Mr. SHEPHERDasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the report of the Amersham Board of Guardians with regard to the overcrowding of the infirmary, in which it is stated that the conditions in the wards are very undesirable; that there is no possibility of separating unpleasant and contagious cases from ordinary patients; that two cases at least amongst the men should be in a separate small ward, one being a cancer case; that a 2148W case of phthisis in the women's ward is in a very infectious state; that patients who are able to get up have to take their meals in close proximity to dying patients and others who are helpless, and from the nature of their illness very unpleasant in their habits and conditions; and whether he will immediately take steps to put an end to these conditions?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend has received a copy of the report made by a committee of the Amersham Board of Guardians containing the statements to which reference is made in the question. The committee was one appointed by the guardians to consider the arrangements to be made to deal with the overcrowding at the infirmary. It is reported that arrangements were at once made to alleviate some of the matters referred to, and others will receive the early consideration of the newly-elected board of guardians. My right hon. Friend has no reason to suppose that further necessary action will not be taken at the earliest possible date, and he proposes to keep in touch with the matter.