§ 13. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the mortality rate due to tuberculosis among young women is now 142 per 100,000; that in women from 25 to 35 years the death rate has increased from 74 per 100,000 in 1939 to 174 per 100,000 in 1947; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter.
Mr. McNeilWhile I have not been able to verify the precise figures mentioned, I am aware that the increased tuberculosis mortality in the years before 1949 was particularly marked for women in the younger age groups. Although it is certain that the gross figure for 1949 shows some improvement, an analysis is not yet available. The steps we are taking to deal with tuberculosis in Scotland were outlined by my hon. Friend in the Debate on the Adjournment last Thursday.
§ Mr. RankinMay I press my right hon. Friend with regard to one proposition which I made in that Debate? It was that he should consider the question of extra or special nutrition in the case of these young women.
Mr. McNeilIn the case of most of the staple rationed foods, additional rations are already available for people suffering from active tuberculosis.