HC Deb 20 August 1940 vol 364 cc1150-1W
Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health what supervision is exercised by him over the Central Medical War Committee; what is the precise scheme under which such committee is acting as a clearing house in connection with the transfer of surplus doctors from evacuation areas to reception areas; when it was prepared; and who was responsible for it?

Mr. M. MacDonald

With regard to the first part of the Question, officers of my Department are attached to the committee as observers. As to the remaining parts, the committee is acting in the capacity described in pursuance of its general functions as stated in the reply given to the hon. Member on the 12th December last and not under any scheme.

Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health why the precise functions of the Central Medical War Committee have not been made known; and why are there so few general medical practitioners as members?

Mr. MacDonald

The functions of the Committee were stated in a reply given to the hon. Member on 12th December last. With regard to the second part of the Question, I would point out that the constitution of the Committee is based on recommendations of the Central Emergency Committee of the British Medical Association, which represents the great majority of general practitioners.