§ 11. Dr. DRUMMOND SHIELSasked the Secretary of State for War the cost of running the Vaccine Department of the Royal Army Medical College in the last financial year; what would have been the cost if vaccine supplies had been 1436 bought from outside sources; and what is the estimated saving, if any, achieved by the present arrangement?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Sir Laming Worthington-Evans)I have no figures available later than for the year 1924–25. In that year the gross cost of the Department was shown as £3,608, while the value, at retail prices, of the vaccines produced is estimated at over £14,600. I have no reason to believe that, were later figures available, the saving shown would be materially different. I should add that the Department is maintained, not only for the production of vaccine but for research work and for training officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps.
§ Dr. SHIELSMay I take it that the right hon. Gentleman will agree that the figures show there is a very considerable public advantage by the Army Medical Service making vaccines for themselves, instead of purchasing them from outside sources?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSOh, yes, Sir; I think the Royal Army Medical Corps does very great public service.
§ Sir BASIL PETOCan my right hon. Friend say when it is anticipated that we shall have an up-to-date report on the health of the Army?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI think a report is published annually.