§ 13. Mr. Messerasked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent men suffering from osteomyelitis are retained in the R.A.F.; and, as this disease is liable to recurrent outbreaks of a serious character, will be consider the discharge, on health grounds, of any men so retained on as early a date as conditions permit.
§ Captain BalfourAn airman with a medical history of osteomyelitis is retained only if it is decided after careful review of all the relevant medical factors that he is fit for service and that his retention is unlikely to cause a recurrence of the disability. In view of the individual consideration accorded to this type of case, the course suggested by my hon. Friend in the second part of the Question would not be warranted.
§ Mr. MesserCan I accept that as an assurance that people suffering from this complaint are engaged only on duties which would not be likely to aggravate it?
§ Captain BalfourIf any man suffers from this complaint, or any other complaint, we try to grade his duties according to his disability.
Dr. MorganIs it not a fact that many cases of this nature are being relieved and cured by proper treatment with penicillin?
§ Captain BalfourThat is a question I am not qualified to answer.