HC Deb 17 March 1927 vol 203 cc2181-2
31. Colonel DAY

asked the Minister of Health whether notice has been drawn to the refusal of the Public Control Committee of the London County Council to amend the massage licence to include ultra-violet ray treatment under medical supervision, on account of the violet ray lamp being a potential danger in the hands of an amateur and inexpert; and whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to restrict the sale or use of violet ray apparatus to persons with medical experience only?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have no information as to the fact stated in the first part of the question, and I am not aware of any necessity for legislation of the kind suggested.

Colonel DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is the expressed opinion of the majority of medical people in this country that these lamps in the hands of inexperienced people are an absolute danger to the public?

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Before my right hon. Friend replies, may I ask him whether the questioner has not failed to differentiate between the violet and ultraviolet rays, which are quite different things?

Captain FRASER

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many masseurs are very skilled electricians, and that there are certain private individuals, including, I believe, Members of this House, who administer this treatment to themselves without any danger?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have not had any information which would lead me to suppose that any legislation is necessary.