HC Deb 19 October 1944 vol 403 cc2530-1
62. Mr. J. J. Lawson

asked the Minister of Health if he will explain the policy of his Department in withdrawing the special tuberculosis grant from a sufferer from this complaint when it is found the condition is static or increasing, seeing that the need of the applicant for greater consideration grows as he loses physical strength and is less able to supply the necessary nourishment through his own endeavour.

Mr. Willink

The purpose for which the special scheme to which my hon. Friend refers was introduced was to encourage the undertaking of remedial treatment at an early stage of the disease. Funds for this purpose, in the absence of other existing powers, have been provided as a war service and can therefore be applied only to cases in which treatment is likely to restore or improve working capacity.

Mr. Lawson

Is the Minister aware that whatever was the reason for laying down this rule originally, to withdraw a grant from a tuberculosis case when the sufferer is getting worse is practically telling a man he is doomed?

Mr. Willink

I am fully aware of the difficulties that arise from this policy, which was instituted, as the hon. Member knows, some time ago. But I have re-examined it, and I believe it is the best we can do with our present extreme shortage of medical personnel.

Mr. Lawson

Would the Minister not give serious consideration to withdrawing this Regulation and laying down that the man who most needs help shall get the most help?

Miss Rathbone

Is not there a shortage of suitable accommodation for these cases in sanatoria?

Mr. Willink

That is exactly the matter I dealt with in replying to the hon. Member for Chester-le-Street (Mr. Lawson). It is not so much a question of accommodation as of shortage of staff.

Mr. G. Griffiths

If my hon. Friend the Member for Chester-le-Street is not giving notice, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this question on the Adjournment. It is a most important question.