§ 25. Dr. Strossasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that there are prima facie grounds upon which is based the hypothesis that vaccination by B.C.G. may prevent the incidence of leprosy and whether he will institute a pilot scheme of vaccination in one or more of the Colonies to ascertain the value, or otherwise, of this procedure.
§ Mr. J. AmeryYes, Sir. I understand that pilot schemes of vaccination are already in progress in the Federation of Nigeria and Uganda.
§ Dr. StrossMay I thank the Under-Secretary of State for the statement he has just made? It is obviously reassuring. There is everything to gain and nothing to lose by this method of investigation. Will the Under-Secretary say whether he has any preliminary information to give the House as to the way these schemes are going and how many people are being vaccinated?
§ Mr. AmeryI have not any information as to the numbers. I am advised that it may take several years before we cart truly judge the efficaciousness of this cure.