HC Deb 15 December 1948 vol 459 cc1193-4
26. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for Air why Mr. A. E. Lintern, 9–81, Clifton Road, Aston, Birmingham 6, was rejected for service in the R.A.F. by the medical officer at No. 3 C.R.S.S. R.A.F. Station, Cardington, on 27th October, on the grounds that his condition showed him to be suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis, in view of the fact that a few days later the Tuberculosis Clinic, Great Charles Street, Birmingham, found him to be free from any sign of tuberculosis or from the likelihood of developing such a complaint; and what compensation his Department proposes to offer to Mr. Lintern for the shock caused to him by this inaccurate diagnosis.

Mr. de Freitas

Mr. Lintern's medical examination showed him to be unfit for service because he had a weak chest. No final diagnosis was made or could have been made without further clinical tests, but since the examination showed that he might be suffering from tuberculosis he was advised to see his own doctor, who was given the results of the examination by letter. This is in accordance with normal medical practice and in these circumstances there is no case for payment of compensation.

Mr. Wyatt

Is my hon. Friend aware that I have in my hand a medical certificate signed by the medical officer who examined Mr. Lintern and it clearly states that he suffered from active tuberculosis? In view of that will my hon. Friend take steps to see that these inaccurate diagnoses are not made on people who offer themselves for voluntary service in the R.A.F.; and in view of the grave shock caused in this case will he see that some compensation is paid?

Mr. de Freitas

Mr. Lintern was told that he might be suffering from tuberculosis and he should see his own doctor. The communication was from one doctor to another and it went into the prima facie findings of the R.A.F. doctor.

Dr. Segal

Can my hon. Friend explain what is the correct medical expression for this term "weak chest"?

Mr. de Freitas

I could not say exactly. I used the expression "weak chest" because I am a layman talking to laymen, but the doctor, writing to another doctor, used the correct medical term.

Wing-Commander Hulbert

Is it not a fact that the medical department of the R.A.F. rendered very valuable service to Mr. Lintern?

Mr. de Freitas

It might have rendered him a very important service but it was found, in fact, that he was not so suffering from tuberculosis.