HC Deb 21 February 1966 vol 725 c12W
77. Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Health in how many United Kingdom hospitals there are superintendent physicians or medical superindents or persons with similar designations; and in how many hopitals such a post is now unfilled.

Mr. K. Robinson

This information is not now collected centrally but the number in Great Britain in September 1962 was estimated at about 530. No information is available about vacant posts.

Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Health if he will take steps to ensure that in future the death or retirement of a superintendent physician or medical superintendent shall be followed by the appointment of a successor to such a post.

Mr. K. Robinson

No. This is a matter for Hospital Boards to decide in consultation with their medical advisers and with Hospital Management Committees concerned.