HC Deb 28 January 1937 vol 319 cc1068-9
65. Mr. Rowson

asked the Minister of Health the total number of deaths from tuberculosis and other causes which have occurred at Papworth sanatorium, Cam bridgeshire, and also in Papworth village settlement, during the past seven years?

Sir K. Wood

I am informed by the authorities of the Cambridgeshire Tuberculosis Colony, Papworth, that the total number of deaths which have occurred in the Colony's hospital during the last seven years is 359, of which 28 were deaths of persons transferred from the village settlement, and that the number of deaths actually occurring in the village settlement during the same period was 13. I cannot at present state the precise proportion of these deaths which were due to tuberculosis, but I am making inquiries and will inform the hon. Member of the result. I should add that the colony receives patients in all stages of tuberculosis, including advanced cases.

Mr. Rowson

Can the right hon. Gentleman state the number of deaths which have taken place from tuberculosis within six months after leaving the sanatorium?

Sir K. Wood

No, Sir, but if the hon. Member will put that question on the Paper I will endeavour to obtain the information.

Captain Heilgers

Is it not a pity that anything should be said which might damage the reputation of an institution which has done most effective work for sufferers from tuberculosis?

Sir K. Wood

I did not understand that that was the case. This is, however, a fine example of the excellent work which is being done in this matter.

66. Mr. Rowson

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that persons suffering seriously from tuberculosis are employed in factories at Papworth, and in some cases so employed until a few clays before death; and will he have an inquiry made into this situation?

Sir K. Wood

I am making inquiries into this matter and will inform the hon. Member of the result.

Mr. Rowson

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept names and dates which have been supplied to me by relatives of patients who have been in this institution?

Sir K. Wood

I shall be glad to receive anything which the hon. Member sends me, but I understood that he was asking me for information.

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