HC Deb 17 May 1939 vol 347 c1405
61. Mr. Paling

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken to deal with the high rate of tuberculosis prevalent in Cyprus?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The Cyprus Government have been active regarding this matter, and a recent expert survey shows that it would not be correct to suggest that the rate of tuberculosis in the island is abnormally high. It approximates in fact to the rate in this country. The Cyprus Government have appointed a doctor as special tuberculosis officer. Tuberculosis clinics are established in two of the principal towns and a new sanatorium is being built with assistance from public subscription in Cyprus and a grant from the Colonial Development Fund.

Mr. Paling

Did not a recent report by a medical man describe the prevalence of tuberculosis there as a great scourge?

Mr. MacDonald

The figures show that the rate is approximately the same as in this country.

Mr. Benjamin Smith

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider increasing the nutrition of these people and thus decrease the incidence of this disease?

Mr. MacDonald

We are considering that.