§ 18. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken to ascertain the medical needs of the two leper settlements in Malaya; and if he is satisfied that all the drugs to meet the requirements of the lepers are being sent out.
§ Mr. HareThere are five leper settlements in the Federation of Malaya. They are under the supervision of a specialist leprologist, and each has its own whole or part-time medical officer. My right hon. Friend is assured that the settlements are efficiently run, and that the medical needs of the lepers, including their requirements for drugs, are being adequately met.
§ Mr. AwberyIs the Minister aware that it was with great pleasure that thousands of people in this country learned recently that Her Majesty had visited one of these settlements, not in Malaya, but in Africa? Will the right hon. Gentleman note that the people in these five settlements are under the impression that they are neglected and forgotten? Will he give an assurance that all the surgical and medical needs of the people in these settlements will be fulfilled?
§ Mr. HareI have great sympathy with what the hon. Member says, and I am sure that publicity will be given both to his supplementary question and to my reply.