HC Deb 26 March 1942 vol 378 c2131
18. Sir Robert Young

asked the Minister of Health to what the increase of tuberculosis during the war period is due; what steps have been taken to cope with the disease; and what further steps he proposes to take, especially for the safety of young persons?

Mr. E. Brown

The causes of the increase in tuberculosis are the subject of a special inquiry, which is at present being actively pursued by a committee of the Medical Research Council. Without anticipating their report, it may be said that the predisposing factors are undoubtedly related to the abnormal conditions of living and working in war-time. Both the causes and the action to be taken are highly complex, and cannot be dealt with adequately in reply to a Question. I hope to have an opportunity of making a fuller statement on this matter, particularly on the question of early diagnosis, which is undoubtedly of the highest importance, and to which special attention is being given.

Sir R. Young

When does the right hon. Gentleman expect to receive the report and to make a statement?

Mr. Brown

I cannot tell; but I expect that it will be possible to have a discussion on this subject at a fairly early date after the Recess.

Sir Joseph Lamb

What is the good of diagnosis when it is not possible to treat cases because of a shortage of nurses?

Mr. Brown

We are dealing with that.

Mr. Rhys Davies

Is it not time we had a full-dress Debate in this House on the work of the Ministry of Health?

Mr. Brown

I shall be only too happy if we have one.