HC Deb 13 July 1949 vol 467 c410
8. Dr. Barnett Stross

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many beds are available for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis in the Tan Tock Seng hospital of Singapore; how many were available in 1938; and whether he is aware that the hospital does not yet possess a thoracoscope.

Mr. Rees-Williams

Four hundred as compared with 72 before the war. A thoracoscope is available in the General Hospital and cases are referred there when it is necessary to use this instrument.

Dr. Stross

Is my hon. Friend aware that the further plans for tuberculosis in this hospital and in this area include another 500 beds, in addition to the 400 he has already mentioned? Does he not think it desirable that another thoracoscope should be supplied to the hospital itself?

Mr. Rees-Williams

I am told that this is a delicate and expensive instrument which is used for cases other than tuberculosis. It is best located centrally.

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

Can my hon. Friend say what steps are being taken as a result of the recent inspection of tuberculosis services in the Colony by Dr. Andrew Morland?

Mr. Rees-Williams

I have not yet seen the report.