19. Mr. CREECH JONESasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will order an investigation into the prevalence of phthisis in the Southern Rhodesian mines?
Mr. M. MacDONALDI am not aware that there are grounds for suggesting that such an investigation is necessary. If the hon. Member will let me know what he has in mind I will consider the matter. In any case I have no power to order such an investigation. It is primarily a matter for the Government of Southern Rhodesia.
§ Mr. PALINGAre we to understand that phthisis exists among the miners?
§ Mr. PALINGAre any steps taken to deal with It?
Mr. CREECH JONESIs the Minister aware that there is no institution for diagnosing these cases, that there is a very high death rate among the native population and very grave physical sufferings among the natives in Nyasaland and Northern Rhodesia as a result of this disease which is contracted in the mines?
Mr. MacDONALDI am not aware that the figures are high or that the death rate is high, but if the hon. Member has any information to lay before me I will give it my careful consideration.
§ Mr. LAWSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the experience of the South African Government in respect of phthisis is being used in this matter?