HC Deb 09 November 1948 vol 457 cc1354-5
2. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will make any statement as to how far research into design and performance of artificial limbs and appliances and improvements in the limb-fitting services has progressed; and what improvements can be expected in the near future.

Mr. Marquand

A research unit at Roehampton works under the direction of the Standing Advisory Committee on Artificial Limbs of which Sir Charles Darwin is Chairman. The Second Report of the Committee issued in April this year shows the general lines on which research is developing. I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a note on the practical results and the improvements which may be expected in the near future.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this research committee has consulted with expert firms like Desoutter Brothers as regards repairs to limbs already issued?

Mr. Marquand

The Committee is a committee of experts and has all the expertise available for its use.

Following is the information:

RESEARCH WORK ON ARTIFICIAL LIMBS

(1) A number of new arm appliances have been added to the existing list and others are being redesigned and improved.

(2) A new artificial arm of improved design has been developed. Six trial orders have been placed, and should these prove satisfactory in all respects, the arm will go into general production.

(3) A new method of suspension of an artificial leg by suction socket has been developed and is under trial by patients; the trials are most encouraging.

(4) A socket of new design for above knee amputation has been produced and is under trial by over 100 patients.

(5) Two new mechanical hands have been submitted by the contractors to the Ministry and are under trial.

(6) An apparatus has been designed and is under experimental test for measuring comparatively the thrust which walking imposes on both the artificial and the sound limb. By means of this apparatus it is hoped that much valuable information will be obtained.

(7) Work is proceeding on the improvement of crutches, new ideas for which have recently been received by the Research Department.