HC Deb 05 July 1911 vol 27 cc1134-5
Mr. MORRELL

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether, in view of the increasing number of exemptions made under the Vaccination Act and Order, 1907, and the consequent loss of fees to vaccination officers, the Board will consider the revision of payment of these officers so as to give some remuneration in respect of declarations of exemption?

Mr. BURNS

The matter has been considered, but it has not been thought desirable to adopt the course suggested.

Mr. MORRELL

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that mainly in consequence of a practice that many people think desirable, many of these officers are being reduced to poverty?

Mr. BURNS

These officers are officers of the boards of guardians. I have done my best to persuade the guardians in certain cases to act reasonably, in some to be generous, to these officers. At present I cannot go further than that.

Mr. BLACK

In view of the number of exemption orders now granted, has not the time arrived when compulsory vaccination should be abolished?

Mr. BURNS

I do not think that question arises here.

Mr. LOGAN

Is it not the fact that at the present time great numbers of boards of guardians have appointed their relieving officers to do this work, and that they find no difficulty whatever in doing it?

Mr. BURNS

It is true, as the hon. Member implies, that the large majority of these officers have other duties and appointments beside that of vaccination officer?