HC Deb 06 May 1947 vol 437 c191
17. Sir T. Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consider introducing legislation for the purpose of making venereal disease a notifiable disease under the appropriate-Act.

Mr. Westwood

I am prepared to seek any powers which might help in eradicating venereal diseases, but I am not satisfied that making these diseases compulsorily notifiable would do so.

Sir T. Moore

In view of the constant danger of infection, especially for young children with an infected person in charge of them, will the right hon. Gentleman not at any rate follow the policy adopted in England so as to safeguard our young people?

Mr. Westwood

I shall certainly make inquiries as to what the policy in England is, but I know that this question has been carefully considered from time to time so far as Scotland is concerned, and the balance of opinion has been that compulsory notification might hinder rather than help the campaign which doctors, the Government and the authorities are waging against this disease.

Sir T. Moore

Although the right hon. Gentleman means well, I shall have to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.