HC Deb 03 February 1953 vol 510 cc1631-2
11. Mr. Chapman

asked the Minister of Labour why, in a case sent to him, a National Service man who had been operated on for a meningocele in the lower dorsal region, was originally classed in medical Grade I; why no effort was made to verify the medical evidence, despite sources being provided by the man's parents; why he has now been placed in Grade III; whether he will accept responsibility for the effect of military training on this man; and whether he will suspend the man's call-up until a full investigation has been made.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and National Service (Mr. Harold Watkinson)

The medical board that first examined this man was aware of the operation he had had in infancy and, before grading him, had available a report on his present condition from a consultant. It is not the case that no effort was made to verify the father's evidence by reference to the source indicated by him. The second board attached greater importance to another condition than did the first board, and for that reason placed him in medical Grade III. Men so graded are called up only if suitable employment is available in the Forces, and after discussion with the War Office it has been decided not to call this man up.