§ 51. Mr. McEnteeasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give any estimate of the number of lepers in Uganda and in Tanganyika; and what steps are being taken for the treatment and cure of leprosy in these Colonies?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe number of inmates in the five leper settlements in Uganda is approximately 1,600. In addition, 391 lepers were treated at Govern- 374 ment hospitals during 1937. In Tanganyika there are 31 leper settlements with a total of about 3,400 inmates. The medical secretary of the British Empire Leprosy Relief Association visited certain of the East African Dependencies, including Uganda and Tanganyika last year to study this problem. His reports are now being considered by the Governments concerned. I am glad to add that during recent years there have been notable improvements in housing and public health which should in time lessen the incidence of leprosy.
§ Mr. McEnteeCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the report to which he referred, which is now being considered by the Governments of Uganda and Tanganyika, will be available to hon. Members?