HC Deb 26 October 1954 vol 531 cc1743-4
28. Sir R. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to give full statistics of the recent outbreak of poliomyelitis in Aberdeenshire; and what action has been taken to prevent an extension of the disease.

Commander Galbraith

The present outbreak of poliomyelitis in Aberdeenshire has affected five children in Insch, four in Old Meldrum, three in Huntly and two in Oyne. On the advice of the county medical officer of health four schools have been closed, and the cooperation of parents has been sought in keeping children away from cinemas, clubs and other such gatherings for the time being.

Sir R. Boothby

Arising out of that answer, and in view of the fact that in this kind of situation unfounded rumours are apt to spread giving rise to unnecessary anxiety, will my right hon. and gallant Friend impress on authorities directly concerned the desirability of making the fullest possible information available to the public, both with regard to the facts and to any action which it is advisable that they should take?

Commander Galbraith indicated assent.