HC Deb 26 February 1935 vol 298 cc924-5
3. Mr. HICKS

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware of the serious illness of Private J. W. Hutchings, No. 6,343,262, the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment, following the administration of a local anaesthetic in the course of teeth extraction; what was the nature of the substance injected; the number of other soldiers similarly treated; whether any fatalities have occurred in consequence; and whether any disciplinary action is proposed to be taken in the matter?

Mr. HACKING

I am aware of the circumstances of this regrettable case. Owing to a grave mistake, turpentine was injected instead of the proper local anaesthetic. No other soldiers were similarly treated. Suitable disciplinary action in the matter has been taken, and special instructions have been issued designed to exclude the possibility of any similar mistake occurring in future. I am happy to say that the soldier's general health is now reported to be good.

Mr. HICKS

In the event of the anaesthetic or whatever was administered to this soldier causing him bad health afterwards, is it within the power of the War Office to meet any liabilities which may be incurred in that way? I raise this question, because I understand that there has been some attempt to suggest that the treatment which has been meted out to this man is final and that nothing further will be done.

Mr. HACKING

If any permanent disability results from this unfortunate mistake, undoubtedly compensation will have to be considered. In the meantime, I may say that a, sum of, I think, £18 has been expended in the form of compensation to the man's parents in order that they should be able to visit their son.

Mr. GEORGE HALL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the anaesthetic was administered by a qualified man?

Mr. HACKING

Yes, Sir, it was. This was a mistake which would take a great deal of explanation before the House, but, if any hon. Member is interested, I shall be glad to let him know how it occurred.

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