HC Deb 24 March 1919 vol 114 cc39-40
88. Major COURTHOPE

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he has statutory powers to schedule venereal disease as notifiable disease; and whether, in view of its prevalence, he will immediately exercise this power?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Major Astor)

The Local Government Board are empowered by the Public Health Acts to make Regulations with a view to the provision of facilities for the treatment of persons affected with any epidemic or infectious disease, and for preventing the spread of such diseases. Regulations have already been made for the provision of treatment for persons suffering from venereal diseases, and as at present advised, my right hon. Friend is not prepared to propose Regulations providing for the compulsory notification of such persons. I may add that the question of law raised by the hon. Member is in some doubt, and is at present the subject of examination.

Sir F. HALL

Is it not the fact that the great bulk of the medical men are in favour of compulsory notification?

Major ASTOR

That question does not arise on this.

98. Mr. STEWART

asked the Secretary of State for War whether soldiers who may be suffering from venereal disease are ever released from hospital while in an infective condition?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am informed that it is the practice to retain soldiers suffering from venereal disease in hospital at least so long as they are in an infective condition.

Mr. STEWART

Can the right hon. hon. Gentleman make further inquiries about that, because the news as it comes to hand from outside sources does not confirm that?

102. Major COURTHOPE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that on the 4th instant the registrar of Cherryhinton military hospital reported to a local medical officer of of health that on the previous day a soldier had been discharged from hospital at his own request suffering from venereal disease and in an infectious condition; whether, under the existing regulations, the officers in charge of military hospitals are unable to retain a venereal patient, who is due for demobilisation, in order to complete the treatment of the disease; and whether, in the interest of the public health, he will prohibit the release of men suffering from venereal disease in an infective condition?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Inquiry is being made, and I will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend as soon as I am in a position to do so.