HC Deb 04 December 1930 vol 245 cc2371-2
34. Mr. P. OLIVER

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to report on the investigation being carried out by the London Cancer Hospital, with the assistance of the medical inspectorate of the Factory Department, into the incidence of the disease of cancer of the bladder among workers in aniline factories?

Mr. SHORT

This investigation has been continued, but I am unable to hazard any opinion as to when conclusive results may be expected. The hon. Member bar will appreciate that investigations into the causation of cancer in connection with particular occupations are always very difficult, and that a special difficulty arises in the present investigation, owing to the fact that the total number of fatalities from cancer of the bladder among aniline workers is quite small, and the collection of data, therefore, very laborious.

Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

Has the hon. Gentleman inquired from the life assurance offices, as they may have some useful information on the matter?

Mr. SHORT

I must ask for notice of that question.