§ 44. Mr. SUGDENasked the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to prevent dental caries in children under school attendance age, children in attendance at school, and adults, respectively; and, in view of the prevalence of dental caries, as revealed by recruit examinations, in adult males, whether he will issue instructions to local authorities to institute inquiries and forward recommendations thereon for its elimination?
§ Dr. ADDISONAdequate provision of dental treatment for the whole population, as suggested in the hon. Member's question, can only properly be produced as an integral part of that complete scheme of national health services which will be amongst the earliest matters to be considered by the Ministry with the advice of the Consultative Councils. A prime necessity, however, must be certain improvements in the existing arrangements for dentistry suggested in the Export of the Departmental Committee which will require legislation in certain respects. In the meantime, the provision of dental treatment for mothers and children is being developed by several local authorities under the regulations of the Ministry of Health and by help of its Grants; in several school clinics by aid of (he Board of Education; and in some areas in connection with health insurance. The importance of the matter is emphasised in all suitable communications from the Ministry to local bodies.