§ 42. Captain GARRO-JONESasked the Minister of Health whether it has been found possible to trace the source of infection of the case of small-pox which has occurred at Hackney Wick; whether he is satisfied that local authorities have all useful powers to safeguard the population in such cases; and whether he can say on what date, in the absence of further cases, the contacts and other inhabitants of Hackney Wick will be free from danger of infection from the case mentioned?
§ Sir K. WOODThe source of infection of this case has not yet been traced. My right hon. Friend is of opinion that the local authorities have all necessary powers to safeguard the population in such cases if adequate use is made by the public of the facilities provided for free vaccination. As regards the last part of the question, as further cases have occurred in this area my right hon. Friend is not in a position to say when the inhabitants will be free from the danger of infection.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESHow many more cases have occurred up to date?
§ Sir K. WOODI must have notice of that question.
§ Mr. MARCHHas the hon. Gentleman any doubt as to whether or not the local authorities are taking all the precautions that are possible?
§ Sir K. WOODI have referred to that in my reply. I say "if the public make use of the facilities provided for free vaccination."
§ Mr. MARCHHas the hon. Gentleman any doubt about the local authorities taking all the precautions necessary?
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSWhat does the hon. Gentleman mean by "free vaccination" since the local authorities have to pay for all cases vaccinated?
§ Sir K. WOODIt means free to the public.
§ commander WILLIAMSWould not the reintroduction of compulsory vaccination be the best means of preventing the disease?
§ Captain GARRO-JONESWill the hon. Gentleman make quite sure that in this particular neighbourhood the question of overcrowding is taken into consideration in dealing with preventive measures against this disease?
§ Sir K. WOODIf that has any bearing on the subject the hon. Member should furnish particulars.
§ Sir K. WOODYes.