31. Sir NAIRNE STEWART SANDE-MAN forasked the Minister of Health when he proposes to appoint the committee to inquire into the sterilisation of mental defectives; and the composition and terms of reference of that committee?
Sir H. YOUNGThe arrangements for the appointment of this committee have just been completed. It will consist of the following members:
with Mr. F. Chanter of the Board of Control as Secretary.
- L. G. Brock, Esq., C.B. (Chairman),
- Wilfred Trotter, Esq., F.R.S., M.D.. M.S., F.R.C.S.,
- R. A. Fisher, Esq., Sc. D., F.R.S., F.R.A.S.,
- A. F. Tredgold, Esq., M.D., F.R.C.P., M.R.C.S., F. R. S. Ed.,
- Miss Ruth Darwin,
- E. W. Adams, Esq., O.B.E., M.D.,
- R. H. Crowley, Esq., M.D., F.R.C.P.,
- E. O. Lewis, Esq., M.A., D.Sc., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.,
The terms of reference will be:
To examine and report on the information already available regarding the hereditary transmission and other causes of mental disorder and deficiency; to consider the value of sterilization as a preventive measure having regard to its physical, psychological, and social effects and to the experience of legislation in other countries permitting it; and to suggest what further inquiries might usefully be undertaken in this connection.
§ Captain McEWENIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared to give us an assurance that in the event of legislation—
§ HON. MEMBERS: Order!