HC Deb 03 August 1939 vol 350 c2618
70. Dr. Guest

asked the Minister of Health whether the blood taken from donors to be stored for use in emergency is stored separately or mixed in bulk; whether he is satisfied as to the condition of such storage; and whether the danger of the conveyance of disease is adequately safeguarded?

The Minister of Health (Mr. Elliot)

Donors of blood are being grouped and registered but will not be asked to give blood unless and until an emergency arises. The blood taken from each donor will then be stored separately and not mixed. The arrangements for storage are made under the supervision of pathological experts and I am advised that there is no danger of disease being transmitted through blood that has been stored under proper conditions.

Dr. Guest

Is it a fact that blood is being stored in bulk at the present time?

Mr. Elliot

No. Sir.

Sir Francis Fremantle

Are sufficient arrangements being made for the different qualities of blood which it is essential to make if the scheme is to be of any value?

Mr. Elliot

That point is being borne in mind.