§ 32. Mr. RADFORDasked the Minister of Pensions what is the approximate number of ex-service men in receipt of pensions for chronic chest trouble; and will he consider the advisability of providing establishments for such cases in parts of the country with a salubrious climate where these men, particularly those, from the industrial areas, may proceed for a period during the winter months when they suffer most severely from their home climatic conditions?
§ Major TRYONAbout 59,000 men are in receipt of pension in respect of a disablement arising from one or other form of chest affection. Rather more than half the total number are cases of pulmonary tuberculosis for whom treatment is by Statute the concern of the local health authority acting under the Ministry of Health. As regards sanatorium provision for these cases I understand that the climatic factor is always considered. Cases, however, of chest affection other than tuberculosis are, where necessary, provided for in Ministry institutions situated in various parts of the country and in the event of a change of climate being essential in any individual case, transfer from one hospital to another can be effected. The results of treatment of these cases in Ministry institutions do not, I am advised, indicate any need for the setting up of further institutions in other localities.