HC Deb 03 March 1915 vol 70 cc802-3
79. Mr. YEO

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the prevalence of meningitis and cerebrospinal meningitis and of the percentage of deaths that has resulted therefrom amongst British troops in the United Kingdom since the outbreak of the War, he will recommend that a careful investigation be instituted into the possible connection between inoculation against typhoid fever and the diseases first mentioned?

Mr. TENNANT

Experts, both military and civilian, have been consulted on this point and they are of opinion that there could not possibly be any connection between inoculation and the occurrence of cerebro-spinal meningitis, and in the circumstances it is not considered necessary to institute any special investigation.

Mr. T. M. HEALY

As this is the third time that an endeavour has been made to use the Papers of this House in order to suggest that this particular disease is spread by inoculation, which nearly everybody knows to be false, will the right hon. (Gentleman say something to discourage the practice of putting down these questions?

Mr. TENNANT

I sympathise very much with the desire expressed by the hon. and learned Member, but it is a matter for the authorities of the House, and not for me. I have to reply to the questions which are put down.

Mr. HOGGE

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of appointing the lion, and learned Member (Mr. Healy) Censor of Questions?