§ Mr. Bradfordasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) why no administrative assistance was available from the Eastern Health and Social Services Board, or the Department of Health and Social Services, during the period between 12 noon and midnight on Wednesday 16th October 1974 at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast;
(2)what steps are being taken to ensure the future security of hospital staff and patients should a riot occur at the Royal Victoria Hospital for a similar reason as that which obtained on Wednesday 16th October 1974, or any other reason;
(3)whether he will arrange for an act of appreciation and an apology to be tendered to the staff of the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, for the inconvenience caused during the emergency on Wednesday 16th October caused by the intake of Maze prisoners;
(4)whether it was with his authority that it was decided to send Maze prisoners to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Falls Road, Belfast, on Wednesday 16th October 1974; and what consideration was given to changing this decision in view of the riot which ensued at that hospital;
(5)whether it was with his authority that it was decided not to divulge patient details to relatives who approached the Royal Victoria Hospital administration for this information on Wednesday 16th October 1974.
§ Mr. MoyleCasualties from whatever cause or source who require hospital care are sent to the appropriate health service hospital. Decisions on these matters are entirely for the medical authorities in the light of their clinical judgment and other relevant considerations. Fifteen casualties from the rioting at the Maze prison were 589W admitted to the Royal Victoria Hospital on 16th October and the names of these casualties were released to relatives later that day.
The normal complement of administrative staff was on duty at the hospital, and in the Eastern Board and the Department of Health and Social Services, on that day. I am quite satisfied that there was adequate cover.
The problem of security for staff and patients at the Royal Victoria Hospital is a source of continuing concern. By nature of its functions the hospital must remain open and accessible to patients and their relatives at all times, and it is difficult to reconcile this requirement with tight security. But I assure the hon. Member that the problem of security for staff and patients at the hospital is being reviewed to see what improvements are feasible.
I am glad to pay tribute to the conduct of the staff of the hospital not only on this occasion but throughout the disturbances of the last few years.