§ 44. Dr. Segalasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many hospitals in the West African Colonies are equipped with X-Ray apparatus; and in how many hospitals is this equipment lacking.
Mr. Creech JonesAccording to the information available to me, hospitals at the following places in the West African colonies have been equipped with X-Ray apparatus: Bathurst, Freetown, Accra, Kumasi, Sekondi, Tarkwa, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kaduna and Kano. Other equipments have been ordered, and I am asking the West African Governments for a complete list, which I will let my hon. Friend have later.
§ Dr. SegalIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of hospitals in West Africa have no form of X-ray apparatus? Does he not think that it is hindering the work of our medical ser- 466 vices in West Africa if inferior standards of diagnosis and treatment are permitted?
Mr. Creech JonesCertainly that is the case, but it will be appreciated that there has been some delay in securing certain apparatus required. Under the new development arrangements we hope some of these shortages will be made good.
§ Sir Ralph GlynCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether in this matter, as in others, he takes into account the Medical Research Council and asks that they should render a report to his Department?
Mr. Creech JonesOh, yes. The Research Advisory Board in the Colonial Office works in the closest association with that body.
§ Mr. SorensenAlthough there are so few examples of X-ray apparatus, can the right hon. Gentleman say how many iron lungs there are and whether they are ever used?