HC Deb 10 November 1949 vol 469 c147W
92. Mr. Platts-Mills

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that when a child is sent away for convalescence by a hospital the cost is borne by the Regional Hospital Board and there is no charge to the parents, but if it is sent away by the local health authority for a recuperative holiday a standard charge is levied on the parents; and if he will take steps to enable local health authorities to send children away for convalescence and so end this anomaly.

Mr. Bevan

There is no anomaly. Convalescence proper is part of the hospital service and is free. Facilities for holidays are one of the "extras" which local authorities can provide as a form of after-care, and for which they may make reasonable charges. I see no reason to alter this.