§ MR. WATT (Glasgow, College)To ask the Secretary for Scotland what was the nature of the diagnosis which occupied the medical officers of health from 21st to 24th December in connection with the outbreak of typhoid fever at Kelvinside, Glasgow; whether he is aware that a typhoid case can be diagnosed in three hours by means of a bacteriological test; has his attention been called to the fact that one or more of these medical officers have since admitted that they waited during these days to see what would develop; and whether, in view of the results of this delay, he will issue the new regulations with regard to the future.
(Answered by Mr. Sinclair.) The period between the 21st and 24th was occupied by the assistant county medical officer in making inquiry into the circumstances of the case, in communicating with the private practitioner in attendance on the case, who was absent at the time of his visit, and in obtaining from him material for the bacteriological investigation. I am aware that the actual process of making the bacteriological test only occupies a very short time. I have no information as to any admission having been made by any of the medical officers to the effect suggested. As regards the last sentence of the hon. Member's Question, I am satisfied that medical officers are fully alive to the necessity 729 for prompt action in such cases, and, from the information before me, I see no reason for issuing any special instructions.