HC Deb 13 November 1956 vol 560 cc731-2
19. Dr. Dickson Mabon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the growing concern among chest physicians in Scotland about the increasing tendency to have patients suffering from tuberculosis treated at home; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. J. Stuart

No representations on this score have been made to me.

Dr. Mabon

Is the Secretary of State aware that the use of antibiotics and chemo-therapy in the treatment of persons suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis carries certain dangers, the chief one being the creation of drug-resistant bacilli by failure to administer the drugs regularly and without interruption? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that representations have been made to me and I have been asked to bring them to the notice of the House?

Is the right hon. Gentleman further aware that hospital treatment ensures that patients take these prescribed drugs regularly—[HON. MEMBERS: "The hon. Gentleman is reading."] Very well, I will try not to read—while domiciliary treatment has no such firm safeguard? In such a case a neglectful patient might find himself in a very serious position as a consequence. Can the—

Mr. Speaker

That is enough for the right hon. Gentleman to consider at one time.

Mr. Stuart

I think I have enough to digest for the moment. I must tell the hon. Gentleman that we will, of course, consider any representations which are made, but I have not received any. Many patients, as I am sure he will know from his greater knowledge of this subject, prefer treatment at home. The choice between home and hospital treatment is essentially one for the doctor in charge of the patient.

Dr. Mabon

May I have an assurance that since this is a matter of controversy—indeed, even of medical controversy—in view of the great campaign which is to be introduced in Scotland, the right hon. Gentleman will consider having a pilot survey of private and domicilary practice in this matter carried out by the Medical Research Council or some such body, and that meanwhile he will encourage—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] This is an important matter—

Mr. Speaker

Order. It is a very important matter, I have no doubt, but it is also important to remember the rule that supplementary questions should not be read and should not be too long.

Dr. Mabon

May I finish the point that I was trying to make, Mr. Speaker?

Mr. Speaker

If it is not too long.

Dr. Mabon

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I will try not to read it.

The point on which I would like an assurance is that in the interval when this matter is in doubt the right hon. Gentleman will ensure that every effort and encouragement is given to all concerned, patients and doctors, to make use of the full hospital facilities in preference to domicilary treatment, which is very much a matter of controversy at the moment.

Mr. Stuart

I am assured that there is no shortage of beds. As I have already said, some patients prefer to remain at home, and I, for one, do not necessarily blame them. It is a matter for the doctor. I have, of course, to be guided by the best expert advice furnished to me, and any representations sent to me will certainly be considered.