75. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the Secretary to the Local Government Board whether Alfred Eungblut, a conscientious objector, until recently confined in Epsom Lunatic Asylum, has died; whether the cause of his death can be stated, where he died, and whether his relatives were informed in good time of the serious state of his health; and whether, in the case of this man, it was suggested on the 14th March last that his treatment was likely to result in his death?
§ Sir G. CAVEMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I have received a notice from the superintendent of the Long Grove Asylum, Epsom, which shows that this man died there on the 10th instant. The primary cause of death is given as "myocardial degeneration" and the secondary as "heart failure." His mother was present at his death. The hon. Member suggested in March last that the man's insanity was caused by his treatment by the military authorities, and I then invited him to submit evidence in support of this serious allegation to the 390 Army Council. I am not aware whether he has submitted any such evidence. No such suggestion has, so far as I know, been made by any other person.
§ Mr. WHITEHOUSECan the right hon. Gentleman say why in a case of serious illness the patient is not sent to a hospital or some other place where he can receive adequate treatment?
§ Sir G. CAVEThis patient was sent to an asylum.