HC Deb 19 July 1915 vol 73 c1175
75. Mr. YEO

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that several men in the Queen's Royal West Surrey Regiment (Territorials), now stationed at Bedford, who are shortly expecting to be sent abroad, have been threatened with compulsory vaccination when on board ship; and whether he will stop this conduct on the part of Army officers?

Mr. TENNANT

It is very undesirable that avoidable publicity should be given to statements such as that contained in my hon. Friend's question. I have caused special inquiry to be made, and the battalion staff, the medical officer, and all available company officers have been seen and questioned, and as a result I am informed that the statement that men of this battalion have been threatened with compulsory vaccination on board ship is absolutely unfounded.

Mr. YEO

Supposing the letters were seen from these men, what would be their position?

Mr. TENNANT

I am informed that there really is no truth in the idea that there was any threat to vaccinate these men compulsorily.

Mr. CHANCELLOR

Does the right hon. Gentleman really suggest that all this is merely a question of the imagination of the men?

76. Mr. YEO

asked how many cases of small-pox have occurred amongst unvaccinated Territorials on active service?

Mr. TENNANT

This information is not available.