§ 4 Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there is evidence from recent statistics of approved societies that there is a substantial increase in the incidence of sickness among the insured population; and will he inquire as to the extent to which long hours of labour and fatigue resulting from Civil Defence and Home Guard duties are responsible for this and issue a Report on his findings?
§ Mr. E. BrownI am aware that there has been an increase in the incidence of short-term sickness among the insured population. I have however no evidence to suggest that the increase is attributable to the factors indicated in my hon. Friend's Question and I do not think that an inquiry on the lines contemplated by him would serve a useful purpose, since it would be impossible to dissociate these factors from other circumstances arising out of the war.
§ Mr. DaviesIs there any contact between the medical department of the Ministry of Health and the Ministries of Labour and Home Security to prevent undue physical strain being brought upon workpeople and thus sending then on to the funds of approved societies?