HC Deb 15 March 1945 vol 409 cc380-1
36. Sir J. Lucas

asked the Minister of Health whether he will give instructions that, before a spinal injection or lumbar puncture is given to a minor, the consent of the parents shall first be obtained, except in cases of emergency, in view of the fact that the practice varies in different hospitals.

Mr. Willink

I am advised that it is the general practice of hospitals to obtain the parents' consent in the circumstances referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend. It would not be competent for me to give instructions to hospitals on the subject, but my hon. and gallant Friend's Question will doubtless draw the attention of any hospital, which has not made a practice of obtaining consent, to the desirability of doing so.

Sit J. Lucas

Can my right hon. and learned Friend convey to that particular hospital, about which he has already had information, that it would be desirable if the authorities would get parents' consent first? I raised this case about two months ago.

Mr. Willink

I am prepared to see that the hospital receives a copy of my hon. and gallant Friend's Question and my answer.