HC Deb 23 May 1928 vol 217 cc1878-9
61. Sir WILFRID SUGDEN

asked the Minister of Health if he is prepared to remove the provisions dealing with the treatment of foreign sailors for venereal diseases by British shipowners, in view of the fact that these latter contribute for this purpose by national health insurance and by national taxation?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Herbert Williams)

I have been asked to reply. The provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts, whereby shipowners are liable for the cost of medical treatment of seamen, are of long standing and have never discriminated against foreign seamen. I see no reason for introducing such discrimination now.

Sir W. SUGDEN

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that we are encouraging immorality among foreign labour by reason of the application of the Merchant Shipping Acts (Amendment) Act of 1923?

Mr. WILLIAMS

I fail to see how that arises out of the question.

Sir W. SUGDEN

If I give the hon. Member statistics, and proof that the result is to increase immorality, even among our own people, will he look into the matter?

Mr. WILLIAMS

Certainly.