§ 98. Mr. J. Lewisasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why facilities for free medical attention to Service personnel on leave from the Army and Air Force do not apply to persons on leave from the Navy.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsNaval officers and ratings are entitled to free medical treatment from Service sources. When they are on leave and treatment from Service sources is not available, free medical treatment can be obtained from Admiralty surgeons and agents who are civilian doctors with whom the Admiralty has made arrangements for the treatment of naval personnel. Where an officer or man is unable to consult an Admiralty surgeon and agent, the Admiralty, subject to certain conditions, pay the fees for attendance on ratings and will reimburse officers for the expenses which they incur. These arrangements are being reviewed in the light of the introduction of the National Health service.