7. Mr. J. Hendersonasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been directed to a resolution adopted by the Manchester City Council protesting against the calling-up for the Armed Forces of persons known to be suffering from tuberculosis; and what action does he propose to take in the matter?
§ 16. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the protest from the Manchester City Council to the effect that, within the city 328 cases discharged from the Forces have been referred to the local health authority for treatment for tuberculosis; that 39' cases of men suffering from that disease were known locally before enlistment and that four such cases were known to his Ministry before being called up; and what reply he has tendered to the Council's protest?
Mr. HendersonIs the Minister aware that during the discussion by the Manchester City Council it was stated that 328 men had been discharged from the Forces suffering from tuberculosis, that 39 were known to be suffering from tuberculosis prior to enlistment, and that four were even notified to his Ministry prior to enlistment? Does not that represent a shameful state of affairs that does harm to the national cause?
§ Mr. BevinI have not read the report. Until I received this Question I did not know that the discussion had taken place. I have sent for a full report of what was said, and I cannot prejudge the matter. When I have the report I must consult the medical boards which passed these men.
§ Mr. Rhys DaviesWhy does the Minister not adopt a suggestion which has been made very often? As the full medical records of the vast majority of men joining the Forces are to be found in approved society records, why does he not consult them before the men are taken into the Forces?
§ Mr. BevinMy hon. Friend knows there is nothing which represents such poor information on medical conditions as approved society certificates.
§ Mr. DaviesThe right hon. Gentleman has been a secretary of one?