§ 39. Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to com bat the increased incidence of tuberculosis; and, in particular, what steps are being taken to prevent an increase of tuberculosis among women engaged in war production?
§ Mr. E. BrownI would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to his Question on this subject on 20th November last. The most important factors in preventive action are the maintenance of as high a level of hygiene and nutrition as possible. The public health authorities and the Ministries concerned are taking all possible steps. The investigation which the Medical Re search Council is making as to the possible causes of increase in tuberculosis is a necessary preliminary to the adoption of any special measures for dealing with the problem. In the meantime facilities for early diagnosis and treatment are being maintained at as high a level of efficiency as war-time conditions permit.
§ Mr. GriffithsHas there been any in crease in the accommodation in sanatoria?
§ Mr. BrownThat was done immediately we got the first signs, and we shall, as far as possible, meet the extra demands.
§ Sir F. FremantleDo the officials of my right hon. Friend's Department co-operate with the medical department of the Ministry of Supply for the purpose of seeing that emergency measures are taken in the factories themselves?
§ Mr. SorensenAre efforts made to supply staff in those sanatoria where, at the present time, the staff is seriously depleted?