HC Deb 23 May 1940 vol 361 c311
61. Mr. Viant

asked the Minister of Health whether he can supply an estimate of the number of deaths reported in England and Wales in the year 1938 as due to bovine tuberculosis?

Mr. M. MacDonald

Of the deaths registered in England and Wales in 1938, 26,176 were classified as being due to tuberculosis. Of these 4,246 were classified as being due to non-respiratory tuberculosis; these deaths would include the majority of the bovine cases; in the absence of special investigation, it is not possible to give more definite information.

Dr. Edith Summerskill

In view of the gravity of the answer which the right hon. Gentleman has given, can he say whether he proposes to take any action to prevent the sale of tubercular-infected milk?

Mr. MacDonald

This is an indication of the great importance of getting ahead with schemes of pasteurisation?

Dr. Summerskill

Can the Minister say whether he proposes to take any action soon in regard to that?

Mr. MacDonald

I shall take any action which is practicable in present circumstances.