SIR WALTER FOSTER (Derbyshire, Ilkeston)To ask the Post master-General whether he is aware that a telegraphist named Bullamore submitted a certificate from a private doctor at Brixton, stating that he was suffering from post influenzal debility, and reeded further rest; that the official medical adviser certified that Bullamore's health was as usual, and no rest was required; that subsequently a specialist certified that Bullamore's symptoms were genuine, and that he could only expect to get relief by prolonged rest and quiet, and that the medical department decline to act upon the advice of the specialist; and, if so, will he state the attitude that his Department adopts towards the certificates of private practitioners.
(Answerea by Lord Stanley.) I have received special reports respecting Mr. Bullamore's health from his private medical attendant and from a specialist, as well as from the Chief Medical Officer of the Post Office, and an aural surgeon whom that gentleman consulted. I have decided, at the suggestion of the Chief Medical Officer, to lay the whole matter before the Medical Referee to the Treasury. As regards certificates from private practitioners, full consideration is given to them, but I am bound to be guided by the opinion of the medical officers of the Department in such matters. In cases of doubt the Medical Referee is consulted.