Tuberculosis Advisory Committee

HC Deb 12 March 1953 vol 512 cc1492-3

38. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health how long his Standing Tuberculosis Advisory Committee has been considering the problem of tuberculosis among persons taking up residence here from abroad; and what recommendations the Committee has made on the subject.

Mr. lain Macleod

The actual reference to the Tuberculosis Advisory Committee was made in December. I understand that it is to be discussed in a few days.

Mr. Robinson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are at least indications that we are importing tuberculosis into this country to a disturbing extent? Is he further aware that this problem is not confined to aliens, as was recently suggested by one of his hon. Friends, but extends also to British subjects from parts of the Commonwealth and from Ireland? Will he introduce some measure of urgency into this matter?

Mr. Macleod

I do not quarrel with what the hon. Member has said. The wider questions he raised are under discussion also with the Ministry of Labour and the Aliens Department of the Home Office.