HC Deb 01 December 1958 vol 596 cc830-1
28. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the high incidence of bronchitis on Tyneside; and what action he is taking to encourage the local authorities and industry to adopt effective preventive measures.

Mr. R. Thompson

Yes, Sir. The preventive action which could be taken by local authorities and industry would be to reduce air pollution, and this is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government.

Mr. Blenkinsop

What is the Parliamentary Secretary doing to approach the right hon. Gentleman concerned and to obtain the financial facilities to enable this matter to be speeded up? Is the hon. Gentleman doing anything in the matter?

Mr. Thompson

One of the underlying causes unquestionably is air pollution. As the hon. Gentleman knows, the establishment of smoke control zones under the Clean Air Act is a matter for my right hon. Friend, but we are in consultation on the subject.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Do I understand from that reply that the hon. Gentleman is at any rate in conversation with one of his right hon. Friends, if not with others?

Mr. Thompson

I am in close consultation with all my appropriate right hon. Friends.