HC Deb 06 May 1947 vol 437 cc198-9
30. Sir

Ian Fraser asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that extra nourishment is recommended by a consensus of medical opinion for men who have suffered from vitamin deficiencies while prisoners of war and whose eyesight or other faculties have been impaired even after they have finished their normal hospital treatment and have returned to their own homes; and whether he will make arrangements with the Ministry of Food for them to receive what is necessary.

Mr. J. Hynd

Experience has shown that men under treatment in Ministry hospitals for vitamin deficiency diseases require a well balanced high calorie diet which is provided with the addition of vitamin concentrates. On discharge to their homes, after the necessary treatment, such patients do not in general require diet supplements except in certain specified conditions for which provision is already made in the existing regulations of the Ministry of Food. Certain cases require vitamin concentrates which Fan be supplied.

Sir I. Fraser

But is not the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a widespread opinion amongst medical men that additional foodstuffs, especially now that we are all on a bad diet, are required by these people for some years, and will he see that they have it?

Mr. Hynd

I am not aware that there is any consensus of medical opinion in that direction. On the contrary, the opinion which I have consulted, and which I understand the Minister of Food on his side has consulted, is unanimously of the decision that I have conveyed, but if the hon. Gentleman can bring me any evidence to the contrary, I shall certainly be glad to examine it.

Sir I. Fraser

Where the patient's own doctor recommends a particular diet, will the hon. Gentleman see that the patient gets it?

Mr. Hynd

Not necessarily, but that, of course, is not for me to decide, and the hon. Gentleman knows the procedure that is followed in such cases.

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