District General Hospitals (Transport)

Oral Answers to Questions — Social Services – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 10 November 1970.

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Photo of Mr Frank Judd Mr Frank Judd , Portsmouth West 12:00, 10 November 1970

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will make a statement on the arrangements which have been made for the transport of patients, visitors and staff to and from district general hospitals following the closure of smaller local hospitals.

Photo of Mr Michael Alison Mr Michael Alison , Barkston Ash

Boards have been asked to give particular attention to any expected transport difficulties and to enlist the help of transport undertakings to overcome them.

Photo of Mr Frank Judd Mr Frank Judd , Portsmouth West

I thank the Minister for that helpful reply, but will he undertake that his Department will do everything possible to encourage hospital authorities to answer the problems which arise because of the anxiety and inconvenience which people may suffer in this respect?

Photo of Mr Michael Alison Mr Michael Alison , Barkston Ash

Hospital boards are alert to this need, but I note the hon. Gentleman's request.

Photo of Miss Joan Quennell Miss Joan Quennell , Petersfield

If my hon. Friend aware that it takes seven hours for constituents from certain parts of my constituency to travel by public transport, for example, from Headley parish to Basingstoke, to the new general hospital, and does he consider this reasonable?

Photo of Mr Michael Alison Mr Michael Alison , Barkston Ash

The problem is not a new one, but accessibility is now a prime factor in the location of new hospitals.