§ 34. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the high level of chest diseases, particularly tuberculosis and bronchitis, on Tyneside as compared with the rest of the country; and whether he will give all possible support both to research into causes and to provision of adequate facilities for treatment.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodYes, Sir. There is a particular research project in hand dealing with bronchitis in Newcastle. The methods of preventing chest diseases are, however, no different in one part of the country than in another and local authorities and medical officers of health were recommended in March, 1954, to intensify their preventive measures generally. I understand that the regional hospital board regards the number of beds available as generally adequate, but proposes to make improvements in the 1330 accommodation for in-patients and outpatients as soon as opportunity offers.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopIs the Minister aware of the great anxiety because of the high incidence of tuberculosis and bronchitis in Newcastle and Tyneside compared with the rest of the country. Could further investigation be made with regard to that? Will the right hon. Gentleman give full support to the inquiry, to which he has referred, now taking place in regard to bronchitis and, in particular, consider any development of chest clinics to include more careful investigation about bronchitis as well as tuberculosis?
§ Mr. MacleodYes, I am fully seized of the importance of this problem and of the high incidence in the area referred to. I will certainly do everything I can to encourage research. On the specific question of chest clinics, I understand that the regional hospital board has a number of plans for additional chest clinics. I think it intends to give priority to Gateshead, where I believe the problem is perhaps more serious than anywhere else.