§ 49. Mr. Pavittasked the Minister of Health the number of persons who suffered from acute chest infections for each of the preceding three years, and the number of those who, after recovery, were left with some permanent disability.
§ Mr. PowellFigures are not available in the form requested, but a sample survey in England and Wales showed that about I person in 40 suffered from pneumonia or acute bronchitis in the year May, 1955—April, 1956. I regret that I have no figures bearing on the second part of the Question.
§ Mr. PavittDoes not that Answer reveal that something like 1 million people are being affected, and is not this an acute problem in this country? Will the Minister do his best to encourage further research? Is he aware of the research being done at the General College of Practitioners and is he giving any aid to that research?
§ Mr. PowellPerhaps the hon. Member would put down a Question on that specific point.
§ Dr. SummerskillIn view of the serious nature of the Minister's Answer, could he tell the House now or at some later date what liaison he has with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government with regard to air pollution, and inform us of the extent of the steps which he is taking to reduce the incidence of chest diseases?
§ Mr. PowellSteps concerned with the reduction of air pollution are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government.