HC Deb 22 July 1943 vol 391 cc1064-5
29. Sir Francis Fremantle

asked the Minister of Health whether the promised system of allowances for cases of tuberculosis undergoing remedial treatment is now in force; what steps he is taking to make it known to medical practitioners in general; and whether he will issue a full statement amplifying his Circular 266/T in detail?

Mr. E. Brown

I have information that in 28 counties and 48 county boroughs the arrangements which I recently authorised are already in operation or will be in operation by the beginning of August, while the remaining authorities are at present completing the necessary administrative arrangements. The Memorandum 266T, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy, contains full and detailed information about the scheme, and no reason for amplifying it has yet arisen. If my hon. Friend desires further information on any particular points, I shall be glad if he will let me know.

Sir F. Fremantle

Is my right hon. Friend aware that medical practitioners often do not see these circulars, although it is upon them that the determination of these cases will rest, as well as upon district nurses and health visitors? Is it not necessary that these people should know these conditions, in order to be able to ferret out the cases?

Mr. Brown

At the moment I do not know of any reason to go further, but certainly will make sure that all concerned really know what is required of them.

Sir F. Fremantle

The last part of my Question asked about details. Is my right hon. Friend aware that at a meeting lately of county medical officers, the people most likely to know, it was clear that in a very large number of cases there were inquiries about details and the Memorandum certainly did not provide for them?

Mr. Brown

I think my hon. Friend will find that that difficulty has been cleared up.