§ 67. Mr. BLACKasked the Minister of Health whether he will state the policy of the Government with respect to the compulsory segregation of persons seriously affected with tuberculosis and in an infectious and incurable condition; and whether he can promise adequate protection to the children and near relatives of such persons who are, through lack of housing accommodation, forced to live in close proximity to such diseased persons?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYAs regards the first part of the question, this matter will be considered in connection with any proposals for the amendment of the Public 411 Health Acts, As regards the second part, it is for the local sanitary authorities to take all such steps as are practicable to prevent the spread of infection.
§ Mr. BLACKDoes the right hon. Gentleman say that the Department can do nothing to prevent the premature death of hundreds of people who are caused to die through the unsatisfactory local housing accommodation?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI am sure that the hon. Member will see that very vital principles are involved in his question. First of all, there is the interference by the central authority in the work of the local authority; and, secondly, the right of the local authority to interfere with the liberty of the subject.