§ 79. Sir C. Edwardsasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the incidence of diphtheria is far greater during school life than before the children go to school, and is progressively declining more quickly at pre-school 'than at school age; and whether, as the old, dilapidated, insanitary and unhealthy school buildings are largely responsible for this, he will take immediate steps to deal with this matter?
§ Mr. E. BrownI am aware that the position regarding incidence of diphtheria among children is broadly as stated by my right hon. Friend. I am advised that defective school premises might be indirectly conducive to childhood infections in general, and I am sure that my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education will be concerned to see that everything possible will be done to secure a high standard of school buildings.