§ 54. Mr. Sydney Irvingasked the Minister of Health what advice he has received from the Medical Research Council on the effects of minor illnesses of expectant mothers on the growing unborn child and, in particular, on the danger of the birth to a woman catching German measles in the first three months of pregnancy of a baby born with a congenital malformation.
§ Mr. Vaughan-MorganResearch into these matters is in progress but has not yet reached a stage when the Medical Research Council is able to advise me.
§ Mr. IrvingDoes the hon. Gentleman agree that, in view of the publicity given to the statement of certain medical officers about the wisdom of daughters and young girls being infected early with this disease, some guidance ought to be given to the public about it?
§ Mr. Vaughan-MorganI am sure it will be considered as soon as we have the necessary Report.
§ Dr. SummerskillPending the recommendation of the Medical Research Council, will the hon. Gentleman consider the question of registering German measles?
§ Mr. Vaughan-MorganI think I had that question from the right hon. Lady before and had it under consideration, but I think that, on balance, the arguments were against it.