HC Deb 24 June 1926 vol 197 cc526-7
16. Mr. COUPER

asked the Minister of Health whether there have been any cases of anthrax, contracted through infected shaving brushes, since the beginning of the year; if so, how many; and what steps have been taken to prevent any recurrence from similar sources?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Neville Chamberlain)

One such case has occurred this year, happily without fatal result. All practicable steps have been taken to trace other shaving brushes which have been imported into this country from the same source, with a view to their being destroyed or withheld from sale. Steps have also been taken to deal with any future consignments of shaving brushes from this source, and the matter has been referred to the Government of the country of origin in order that appropriate action may be taken.

Mr. MACKINDER

Has the Minister considered the advisability of compelling the disinfection of shaving brushes? Does he remember that the Government have a splendid disinfecting station?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not think it is practicable.

Mr. MACKINDER

In view of the importance of the question, may I ask for a reply?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I said that I did not think it was practicable.

Miss LAWRENCE

Is it not possible to disinfect the bristles in bulk?

Mr. MACKINDER

May I ask the Minister further—

Mr. SPEAKER

I think further questions ought to be put on the Paper. The question seems to have been fully answered.