HC Deb 31 March 1953 vol 513 cc1028-9
51. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the rate of pulmonary tuberculosis for Scotland, during 1950, 1951 and 1952, with the West of Scotland's percentage of that rate; and what steps he is taking to remedy the higher incidence in this part of Scotland.

Commander Galbraith

As the reply contains a number of figures, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mrs. Mann

The Question does not completely ask for figures. The latter part of the Question asks for steps— would the right hon. and gallant Gentle-may say "what steps he is taking to remedy the higher incidence in this part of Scotland? "Could we have a reply to that?

Commander Galbraith

All known measures are being used in that particular part of the country.

Mrs. Mann

As the known measures have not proved very effective, will he try to study some unknown measures?

Commander Galbraith

I would find insuperable difficulty in that.

Dr. Snmmerskill

Could the Minister say to what he attributes the high tubercular mortality rate among young girls as compared with England?

Commander Galbraith

I do not think the reasons are really known. As the right hon. Lady knows, it is being studied but so far we have had no definite reply.

Following is the reply:

Year Respiratory Tuberculosis
Scotland "West of Scotland" (comprising Counties of Dunbarton, Lanark and Renfrew and all Burghs therein) West of Scotland rates as a percentage of the Scottish rates
Notification per 100,000 Death rate per 100,000 Notification per 100,000 Death rate per 100,000 Notifications Deaths
1950 … … 157 47 207 70 132 149
1951 … … 152 37 197 53 130 143
1952 … … 144 27 188 41 131 152
All the established measures for combating tuberculosis have been and are being intensified in the West of Scotland.