§ Mr. Denvilleasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that many hospitals and aid-posts lack direction boards for the guidance of incoming or departing casualties; that in several instances no provision is made for one-way traffic, the parking of staff motor-cars where they will not be in the way, and, in general, the regulation of traffic in the neighbourhood of hospitals and first-aid posts during the reception of casualties; and whether he will take action to see that all possible steps are taken to avoid the delay and confusion which lack of forethought in these matters is likely to occasion?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe attention of local authorities has already been drawn to the importance of providing direction boards to first-aid posts, but I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health that it is not generally considered necessary to provide direction boards to hospitals; ambulance drivers learn the routes as part of their training. As regards the second part of the question, the police have already been in consultation with the hospital authorities about traffic arrangements with a view to securing that ambulances shall arrive and depart in the shortest possible time. I will consult my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health on the question whether any further action can be taken by the police to assist.