§ 39. Sir BASIL PETOasked the Minister of Health what steps lie intends to take to carry into effect the interim report of the departmental committee for the improvement of accommodation and treatment of women in childbirth, particularly in cases of tuberculous patients; and whether arrangements can be made for all such cases, from whatever authority, to be sent to such sanatoria as have facilities for the reception of pregnant women?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI propose in the first instance to communicate with the local authorities in regard to certain of the recommendations in this report, including the provision of additional accommodation for women in childbirth. As regards the second part of the question, I understand that special arrangements for confinement are not usually made in tuberculosis sanatoria, and I am advised that it is generally preferable to arrange for the transfer of pregnant women in sanatoria to a maternity home for the confinement and to re-admit them subsequently to a sanatorium.
§ Sir B. PETOWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the immense importance of finding some adequate accommodation for these cases and avoiding sending them from pillar to post, thereby causing delay and resulting, in some cases, in the death of both mother and child?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI am on the point of issuing a circular to local authorities on the whole field and the provisions that can be made.
§ Major GLYNCan the right hon. Gentleman say why the work of the Voluntary Authorities' Association was not mentioned in the report?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI do not know. I was not responsible for the report.
§ 42. Mr. MORRISasked the Minister of Health if it is his intention to give legislative effect to the recommendations of the Maternal Mortality Committee?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI propose in the first instance to communicate with local authorities in regard to certain of the recommendations in question not all of which require legislation.