§ 46. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, as representing the Lord President of the Council, whether he can make a statement on what further steps have been taken to deal with the industrial diseases reported on pages 144 and 145 of the report of the Medical Research Council for the year 1935–36, Cmd. 5378; and what steps in particular have been taken to deal with silicosis and pneumoconiosis?
§ The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Earl Winterton)An account of the further progress of the investigations into industrial pulmonary diseases, mentioned in the report of the Medical Research Council for the year 1935–36, is given on page 163 in the report of that body for 1936–37 (Cmd. 5671), which was presented to Parliament in February. This also includes references to several technical papers in which results obtained in 2038 the various investigations have been published. As I have stated in reply to previous questions, one of the main items in the programme is an investigation into chronic pulmonary disease among coal miners.
§ Mr. SmithIn view of the fine work being done by the Medical Research Council is the right hon. Member satisfied that industry is getting the benefit of this research work, and, if not, will he take steps to consult the Home Office with a view of coordinating all organisations and the various departments so that industry may get the full benefits of this research work?
§ Earl WintertonI will certainly look into that, but my impression is that the admirable work of this committee is being taken full advantage of by those concerned in industry.