§ 73. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Secretary of State for War whether the General Council and Register of Osteopaths have 1891 offered their services to his Department; and whether men serving in the Army will be entitled to the advantages of osteopathic treatment during the emergency?
§ Mr. StanleyAn offer of services was received last November from the General Council and Register of Osteopaths, and they were informed that the offer was appreciated and that, if those osteopaths who hold a legal qualification to practise medicine in this country would register for military service with the Central Emergency Committee of the British Medical Association, they would be considered for commissions in the Royal Army Medical Corps where they would have opportunities of exercising their special skill.
Vice-Admiral TaylorWill the services of bonesetters be utilised also, as very useful services can be performed by them?
§ Mr. StanleyI do not know whether we have received any communication from bonesetters as such, but their services would certainly be considered, on the same terms as those of osteopaths.
Vice-Admiral TaylorIf the condition is that they have to be registered, there may be no chance of using them.
§ Mr. AmmonDoes that mean that a man like Sir Ernest Barker is ineligible, in view of his work in the last war?
§ Mr. StanleyIt is impossible in connection with matters of this kind for the Army to alter the whole of the medical system.
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsCan the Minister say whether all the qualified medical men who join the Army will be compelled to start as stretcher bearers?
§ Mr. StanleyExceptions are made to the rule about service in the ranks in the cases of officers required with special qualifications, for instance, medical qualifications.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallIs not this rather a reflection upon what has become an honourable profession?