§ 38. Mr. Yatesasked the Minister of Health how many children in this country are suffering from muscular distrophy and progressive muscular atrophy; and what steps have been taken to improve research into these diseases.
§ Mr. BevanThe numbers are not accurately known, but are not believed to be large. A new investigation at a northern teaching hospital is being undertaken, in addition to the established research unit in London.
§ Mr. YatesCan my right hon. Friend say whether there is any evidence to date of a case of this disease having been cured, and, whether, in view of the large number of cases in the Midlands and some distressing ones in Birmingham, he would consider opening a research station for the Midlands?
§ Mr. BevanI would not like to answer the first question in the affirmative or in the negative and so give rise either to undue pessimism or optimism. It is not always advisable to say that there has been a cure in cases of this kind. There may have been a slight amelioration, and the trouble may recur.
§ Mr. Somerville HastingsIs it not a fact that a vast deal can be done for these sad cases if, and only if, they are dealt with very early?
§ Mr. YatesWould my right hon. Friend answer my second question, which was whether, in view of the large number of cases in the Midlands, he would consider the opening of a research centre?
§ Mr. BevanIt would not necessarily add to the facilities available, unless the research centre was adequate.