42. Mr. Holmesasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many collieries in Yorkshire have Airotone baths installed; and has he any reports of the number using these baths, and of any beneficial results to miners using them who suffer from various types of rheumatism.
§ Mr. ShinwellI am informed that Aerotone baths have been installed at five collieries in Yorkshire, and that during the first quarter of the present year they were used on various occasions by 130 miners as well as by 90 other persons, including members of miners' families. The use of this type of bath as an aid to miners suffering from rheumatism is still regarded as in the experimental stage. So far, however, my medical advisers have not found any reason to believe that the bath has any special therapeutic value, but the results will continue to be carefully watched.
Mr. HolmesDoes the right lion. Gentleman know that people suffering from rheumatism—[HON. MEMBERS: " Speak up."]—after treatment in these baths have been able to resume work?
§ Mr. ShinwellI have heard of such cases, but they do not justify us in the assumption that these can provide a complete cure.
§ Mr. MurrayIf these experiments are successful, will the Minister instal the baths elsewhere?
§ Mr. ShinwellAfter we are satisfied that we have a remedy we shall certainly seek to apply it.