HC Deb 11 June 1940 vol 361 c1160W
Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to see that ordinary members of the public are informed as to what cases should be taken to first-aid posts and what to hospitals?

Mr. M. MacDonald

Posters displayed by local authorities generally inform the public that lightly injured casualties will be dealt with by first-aid posts and the more seriously injured by hospitals. I am advised that it is not practicable to give the public more detailed advice, but first-aid parties are suitably instructed in this matter, as explained in a reply given to the hon. Member on 23rd January.

Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health whether there are, in the hospitals of the emergency medical services, special officers appointed to supervise and classify admission in order that they may, without delay, receive the type of treatment needed?

Mr. MacDonald

The normal practice in hospitals under the emergency scheme is that the medical staffs organise reception units, with special officers to supervise and classify admissions.

Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health whether it is now proposed to transfer London air raid casualties to places in Kent and East Anglia; and, if not, whether the hospitals concerned may be informed as soon as possible so that they may make arrangements for devoting all their accommodation to local cases?

Mr. MacDonald

The emergency hospital scheme is so framed as to enable patients to be moved according to the situation at the time, and all hospitals are aware that casualties may have to be moved in directions other than those originally planned.