§ 46. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Health if he will issue suggestions to local authorities in the Greater London area as to action to be taken during the next epidemic of smog.
§ Mr. R. ThompsonI am sure that the authorities are already aware of their powers and responsibilities under the Clean Air Act and I do not think that any suggestions from my right hon. and learned Friend are called for.
§ Mr. HastingsDoes the Parliamentary Secretary agree that the atmospheric conditions in the coming winter in the London area may well be little different from those in 1952, when 4,000 people died of smog? Will he reconsider his decision and give local authorities in the London area the best advice possible on what to do if another case of smog supervenes during the coming winter?
§ Mr. ThompsonYes, Sir. My Ministry and the Ministry of Housing and Local Government issue a joint broadcast notice when persistent fog is forecast recommending steps to reduce smoke and advising people with chronic respiratory complaints and heart conditions to stay indoors as far as possible. The question of actual treatment is, of course, not for the local authorities but for the hospitals and general practitioners under the National Health Service Act.