HC Deb 16 July 1953 vol 517 cc2231-2
26. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Kenneth Wright, of Leicester, was discharged from Her Majesty's Forces in November, 1952, as unfit for Royal Air Force service due to shadows on the lungs from old tuberculosis; that he was X-rayed in Leicester in December, 1952, and April, 1953, and recommended to be seen again in January, 1954; that he has again been passed by a medical board as grade I for military service; and if he will investigate this case and ensure that Kenneth Wright is not again taken into the service of the Royal Air Force.

Sir W. Monckton

I am looking into this case and have, in the meantime, cancelled the enlistment notice.

Mr. Janner

While I thank the right hon. and learned Gentleman for having taken this rather belated action, may I ask whether he has inquired into the circumstances of this case with a view to preventing similar occurrences elsewhere? Does he not consider it an absurd position for a man to be discharged from one Force, told to go for X-ray examination by his own doctor, still to be under treatment and then to be called up by another branch of the Services? What does he intend to do about it?

Sir W. Monckton

I said I was looking into this case, and to do so I have to collect the medical documents from the Army. When I have done that I shall decide the matter, but I prefer not to give a decision without the evidence.