HC Deb 12 November 1918 vol 110 cc2482-3
41. Captain CARR-GOMM

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War how many patients at the Prince of Wales's Hospital, Great Central Hotel, Marylebone, have died from influenza during the recent outbreak; and whether any attempt has been made to isolate the cases?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am having further inquiries made, and will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend as soon as possible.

Colonel C. LOWTHER

Are not some of these deaths due to the paucity of food, which has become quite proverbial?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I cannot say that, but I do assure my hon. and gallant Friend that I got a very full report from the investigation officer, and I should like to show both my hon. and gallant Friends that report.

Colonel LOWTHER

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Yes, I will, certainly.

Captain CARR-GOMM

Will the right hon. Gentleman suggest to the heads of the Medical Department of the War Office the advisability of considering a general inquiry into the arrangements for sending new patients to hospitals where this influenza is rife, and also the advisability of taking steps to prevent men being sent there when it would risk their getting influenza?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I do not think my hon. and gallant Friend's supplementary question arises out of the original question, but I will certainly ask the medical authorities of the War Office to look into the matter.

General CROFT

In view of the repeated doubts in regard to this hospital, would it not be wise to get rid of the German-Swiss manager there?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I do not think that point arises out of the question. I have written my hon. and gallant Friend on the question.