HC Deb 25 November 1912 vol 44 cc800-1
32. Mr. ASTOR

asked how many complete schemes for detecting and treating tuberculosis have been submitted by local authorities; and how many have been approved up to date by the Board?

Mr. BURNS

Complete schemes have already been submitted by the councils of sixty counties and county boroughs, and the Board have approved of the main lines of thirty-three of these schemes. Schemes of a partial or temporary character have been submitted by forty-six other such councils, and schemes for the provision of dispensaries have already been submitted by sixteen Metropolitan borough councils.

Mr. ASTOR

How long have the Local Government Board been considering the schemes not yet approved?

Mr. BURNS

As soon as is consistent with decency, economy, and order we sanction these schemes. Approval is not withheld longer than is necessary.

33. Mr. ASTOR

asked how many beds in sanatoria, as distinguished from beds in hospitals or other institutions, are now available for insured persons suffering from tuberculosis?

Mr. BURNS

The total number of beds in the sanatoria already approved by my Department is 2,806.

Mr. ASTOR

Have all these come up to the requirements laid down by the Local Government Board?

Mr. BURNS

The distinguished corps of doctors we have set aside to approve these schemes are satisfied with them.

Mr. ASTOR

But do they come up to the requirements laid down in the circular of the Local Government Board?

Mr. BURNS

Yes, or else they would not be approved.