HC Deb 28 June 1951 vol 489 cc1549-51
3. Dr. Barnett Stross

asked the Minister of Health whether he has noted recent evidence from American and British research, showing the alarming increase in carcinoma of the lung and its association with heavy smoking of cigarettes; and what steps he is taking to publicise these findings, especially among young people.

Mr. Marquand

I have noted the results so far reached by research into this subject. These are being considered by the Standing Cancer and Radiotherapy Advisory Committee.

Dr. Stross

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the result of the research is very disturbing? Is he satisfied that it is reasonably correct? When ultimate consideration has been given, will he do what he can to publicise it, in view of the fact that so little publicity can be given in certain quarters?

Mr. Marquand

I am satisfied that the results published recently are rather alarming and that is why I have asked the Committee to look into it.

Sir Hugh Lucas-Tooth

Does the right hon. Gentleman accept all the implications in this Question?

Mr. Marquand

I do not know what implications there may be, but I asked this Committee—which is associated in this matter with the Medical Research Council—to consider the evidence of this research.

4. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Health whether he can give the figures for deaths from carcinoma of the lung for the years 1940 and 1949 both for males and females.

Mr. Marquand

Deaths recorded as due to carcinoma of the lung were 2,121 males and 694 females in 1940 and 3,720 males and 807 females in 1949.

Dr. Stross

As these figures show almost a doubling in five years of deaths from carcinoma of the lung, and in view of the implications of the answer given to the previous Question, does my right hon. Friend agree that, as the total number is now approaching double that of deaths from pulmonary tuberculosis, something ought to be done about this matter?

Mr. Marquand

I agree that something ought to be done and treatment is being carried out all the time on victims of this disease. I also agree, as I have already said, that further research and study are urgently necessary.

Mr. Somerville Hastings

Are there not many other factors which should come under consideration, such as, for instance, the increased use of petrol by road traffic?

Mr. Marquand

I am sure that all factors will be taken into consideration by the Committee

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