| Description | Tracks 1 - 21 (This recording continues on MS 4000/6/1/81/2/C)
This is a recording of a discussion about establishing a production committee for the show which became 'Dr Healey's Casebook'. Roger Poole, Tony Nichols and another male NUPE official discussed political, economic and social matters concerning threats to public expenditure with Charles Parker, Chris Rogers and Dave Rogers of Banner Theatre. Reference is made to a report that Banner have previously prepared (this paper is considered more fully in MS 4000/6/1/81/2/C). Charles Parker identifies the main purposes of the meeting as outlining a recording schedule for the production; identifying the most productive areas for Banner to research and also the key areas requiring consideration. (Track 8). The NUPE officials wish to restrict membership of the production committee to the six people at this meeting, whereas Charles Parker advocates a wider membership. The NUPE officials identify a wide range of union officials, activists and ordinary members that Banner can interview as required (Tracks 8 - 11).
Detailed discussons occur about the scope of the production. It is recognised that 'public expenditure' includes armaments and defence activities. It is decided to focus on the need for public services such as health, education and social services, as well as threats to funding for such services (Tracks 11 - 14). Comparisons are made between British and E.E.C. levels of expenditure on public services (Track 3) as well as comparisons of relative tax levels and investment (including under-investment in industry). Socialist responses to technological developments are contrasted with Capitalist attitudes. (Tracks 2 - 5).
Disparities in funding between prestige hospitals such as the Queen Elizabeth Hospital are contrasted with underfunding in psychiatric / geriatric hospitals such as Highcroft Hospital (This point is developed on MS 4000/6/1/81/2/C.)
The public perception that 'bureaaucracy' is a cause of waste in public services is discussed, and Charles Parker contrasts bureaucracy with necessary administration (Track 6). Other issues considered include working hours (Track 4), productivity (Track 5), the Public Sector Borrowing Requirement (PSBR) & IMF Loan (Track 14). An intimation of relations between NUPE and NALGO is given (Tracks 7 - 8). Comments are made about the success of NALGO and the National Union of Railwaymen (NUR) in protecting members' interests in the face of organisational and technological challenges (Tracks 4 -5). Reference is made to the Lucas Aerospace Stewards' Committee and their ideas for alternative uses of armaments / defence technologies (Track 12).
Total: 1 hour 05:24 minutes
Dubber's reference number: PLA KF573E0718780 |