§ 27. Mr. MACLEANasked the Minister of Health, whether he can state the number of deaths which have taken place in England and Wales, in the past 12 months, of patients whilst under an anaesthetic; and whether, when a death takes place in such circumstances, the death certificate contains a statement that the death occurred while the patient was under an anaesthetic?
Sir H. YOUNGDuring the last 12 months for which figures: are available, namely, the calendar year 1931, 723 deaths were registered in England and Wales which were certified as having taken place either under or in connection with the administration of an anaesthetic. Certifying medical practitioners are advised that when death occurs during anaesthesia or is in any degree attributable thereto, a reference to the anaesthetic should be made on the certificate.
§ Mr. MACLEANMay I ask whether that advice is always carefully followed out? Is it not the case that in a large number of instances the fact that a patient has died while under an anaesthetic does not appear on the death certificate?
Sir H. YOUNGNo, Sir, I have no reason to suppose that that is so. If the hon. Member knows of any case which would tend to confirm his observation, I should be very glad if he would bring it to my attention.
§ 39. The following Question stood upon the Order Paper:
§ Mr. MACLEAN.—To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of deaths which have taken place in Glasgow during the past 12 months of patients while under anaesthetics; and whether, when a death occurs in such circumstances, the death certificate contains any statement that the death occurred while the patient was under an anaesthetic?
§ Mr. MACLEANThere is an error in this Question and on that account it is postponed until Tuesday.