§ 44. Mr. Leachasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Cyril Francis Youngman, of 350, Woolwich Road, Charlton, aged 14 years, died from encephalitis resulting from vaccination, on 2nd December, the vaccination having been undergone so that the lad could take up a situation at Woolwich Arsenal; that the Minister of Health, in his recent annual reports, has recommended that children of school age and young adults should not be primarily vaccinated unless in special danger of smallpox, as this operation may cause or activate encephalitis; and whether, in view 1768 of this case, he will abolish the regulation requiring certain workers at Woolwich Arsenal to be vaccinated?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI have been made aware of the unfortunate circumstances in which this lad died, and would like to express my sincere sympathy with his family. Such cases are very rare, but I am considering whether the present regulation requiring the vaccination of entrants to the Royal Arsenal should be relaxed.
§ Mr. LeachWhen the right hon. Gentleman's consideration of the matter is completed, will he let me know the result?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaYes, Sir.
§ 53. Mr. Kellyasked the Secretary of State for War how many cases of serious incapacity have resulted from compulsory vaccination at Woolwich Arsenal; and whether any case resulted in the death of the man vaccinated?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaBefore an employé is engaged at the Royal Arsenal he is required to be vaccinated. As the vaccination is done by his own private arrangement, I have no information such as the hon. Member desires.
§ Mr. KellyHaving regard to the fact that in many cases men are unable to be in employment for some days following vaccination, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to abolish this practice, especially as there is no epidemic at present nor has there been one for years?