§ 98. Mr. Tolleyasked the Minister of Health why the Mid-Worcestershire Hospital Management Committee are advertising for a whole-time Church of England Minister as Chaplain for the six local hospitals, at a salary of £500 per annum plus a rent allowance and subject to superannuation benefit, when in the past local ministers have willingly done this service free; and if he will give further consideration to the saving of this expenditure, and allow the voluntary system to continue.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopChaplains have held paid hospital appointments widely in the past, including two in this group, and this advertisement accords with the general policy framed after consultation with the churches. Voluntary visiting of patients by their own ministers is also continuing in the future as in the past.