§ 69. Mr. G. WHITEasked the Minister of Health if, in view of the suffering and 2215 loss of national efficiency due to the incidence of rheumatic diseases, he will state what steps he is taking to combat this scourge, by research into its causes, and by the encouragement of local authorities to provide facilities for treatment?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI would refer the hon. Member to pages 222–26 of the Report of the Chief Medical Officer of my Department for the year 1928, in which will be found a statement setting out the steps taken in London and elsewhere to provide treatment for acute rheumatic disease. As regards chronic rheumatic diseases, my Department is in close touch with the Medical Research Council in the matter of research, and I am prepared to give sympathetic consideration to any practicable proposals which may be submitted to me by local authorities for the provision of facilities for treatment.
Dr. VERNON DAVIESCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether at the present time the Ministry are supplying any money to any local authorities for the treatment of these rheumatic cases.
§ Mr. GREENWOODI must ask for notice of that question.