HC Deb 14 July 1919 vol 118 cc37-8
86. Mr. FOREMAN

asked the Minister of Health the number of persons in the County of London suffering from tuberculosis known to the authorities to require sanatorium treatment and for whom no accommodation is available, and to see whether steps can be taken to utilise as sanatoria auxiliary or other war hospitals no longer required for war casualties?

Major ASTOR

The figures necessarily vary from week to week. There are, approximately, as far as the County of London is concerned, some 1,700 persons, including children, in residential sanatoria. 500, of whom more than half are children, awaiting entrance. All possible steps are being taken since the diminution of the difficulties occasioned by. war conditions to increase the accommodation, including the adaptation of buildings that were provided for war purposes, as far as these can be made suitable.

90. Mr. DEVLIN

asked the Pensions Minister whether his attention has been called to the treatment of discharged soldiers suffering from tuberculosis, whether he is aware that these men are unable to procure employment because of the disease they suffer from, as no employer wants consumptive workmen; and whether he will arrange that these men are therefore allowed the full 100 per cent. disablement pensions to help them to exist during the few years they may expect to live?

Sir J. CRAIG

The question of tuberculosis as affecting discharged soldiers has recently been considered in all its aspects by an Inter-Departmental Committee. Their Report is expected within the next fortnight and will be immediately taken into consideration.

Lieut. - Commander KEN WORTHY

Has the hon. Gentleman considered the case of men invalided out before the War on account of tuberculosis, who are now suffering very great hardships, without any pension whatever?

Sir J. CRAIG

I am speaking from memory, but I think the Departmental Committee investigated all cases of tuberculosis.

Lieut. Commander KENWORTHY

Will the hon. Gentleman make sure that this is well considered, as great hardship is being suffered?

Sir J. CRAIG

The Committee has just completed its labours and will report shortly.