HC Deb 21 January 1954 vol 522 cc1184-5
24. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health what action he proposes to take, following the advice tendered by the Central Health Services Council, that those seeking work in this country from abroad should be free from infectious tuberculosis.

Mr. Iain Macleod

This is still under consideration, but I hope to be able to come to a decision very shortly.

Mr. Robinson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a suspicion in the medical profession that he and his right hon. Friends are anxious to shelve this matter, in view of the many admitted difficulties involved? Will he dispel that suspicion by announcing an early decision?

Mr. Macleod

I shall try to get an early decision, but it is more the small size of the problem and the great difficulties of introducing any form of control rather than unwillingness that has led to the delay.

Mr. E. Fletcher

Will this involve any amendment of the Aliens Order which the Home Secretary has laid before the House?

Mr. Macleod

I should like notice of that.

Sir H. Williams

Has my right hon. Friend's attention been called to correspondence in the Press protesting against an immigrant being held up on the grounds that he had had T.B. a long time ago, and that he was treated in a most bureaucratic manner?

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