Written Answers To Questions
Monday, 13th June, 1955
Hospitals
Hampstead General Hospital (Sub-Committee's Report)
16.
asked the Minister of Health if he has considered the Report of the Sub-Committee of the Board of Governors of the Royal Free Hospital Group set up to inquire into the case of John Kitson and into the procedure for dealing with casualties at the Hampstead General Hospital; and whether he will make a statement.
I have seen this Report, which I am informed has been accepted by the board of governors. They are satisfied that the procedure laid down is in itself satisfactory, if properly followed, and I see no reason to differ from that view. What is needed is to see that it is properly followed, which I am sure that all concerned will now endeavour more than ever to do.
Trade And Commerce
Textile Industry, Lancashire
41.
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to announce the Government's plans for the assistance of the Lancashire cotton industry.
I would refer the hon. Member to the comprehensive statement made by the Prime Minister in the House on 3rd May.
Ussr (Detained British Subjects)
20.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many Britons are detained by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics or its satellite countries.
As my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Arundel and Shoreham (Captain Kerby) was informed on 7th February last, the Foreign Office at present have a record of eleven alleged British subjects who are reported to be detained in the Soviet Union. In addition one person is known to be detained who is considered by the Russians to be a Soviet citizen, although she also possesses British nationality.In Poland two British subjects, one of whom is also a Polish citizen, and in Roumania two British subjects, who also possess Roumanian nationality, are known to be under detention.
Home Department
Heroin Manufacture (Prohibition)
asked the Minister of Health how far the manufacture and export of heroin is to be barred after 31st December; and to what extent a supply will be available to patients for whom it has been prescribed for a considerable time.
I have been asked to reply.I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given today to my hon. Friend the Member for Aberdeenshire, East (Sir R. Boothby).
Pensions And National Insurance
Local Tribunals
asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if he will give consideration to the appointing of representatives from the National League of the Blind to sit on the local tribunals of National Insurance and National Assistance Boards.
No. I do not think this would be practicable.
Transport
C Licence Vehicles (Emergency Use)
asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether, during the state of emergency, the Government will allow vehicles driven by C licence holders to carry goods other than those normally permitted under the licence.
Yes. I have already done so.