§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what contingency arrangements he has made to provide an ambulance service in the event of further industrial action by ambulance men; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephI understand that although ambulance men in several local authorities have taken unofficial industrial action they are continuing to provide accident and emergency services in all areas except County Durham. As I explained in my reply to the hon. Member for Durham
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Year ended 31st March 1970 31st March 1971 31st March 1972 31st March 1973* Number of injury benefit claims (thousands) … … … … 899 795 710 733 Total sums paid in injury benefit (£ millions) … … … … 33 33 31 33 * 53 weeks. (Mr. Mark Hughes) yesterday.—[Vol. 864, c. 506–8.]—the Durham County Council is maintaining an emergency service with the help of volunteers. My Department is of course keeping the situation under constant and detailed review.