§ Q8. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Prime Minister if he is aware of Recommendation 4(v) in the Milne Report that 890 the powers available to medical officers of health to close premises in which infection may exist should be re-examined to consider whether strengthening of the present powers is desirable; and what steps he has taken and plans to take to implement that recommendation.
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health has invited the views of interested parties on the recommendation in so far as it applies to England and Wales. In Scotland the question is to be looked at in a general review of public health legislation.
§ Mr. HughesIs my right hon. Friend aware that since I tabled this Question the Secretary of State for Scotland has written me a letter expressing appreciation of the work of Dr. MacQueen, the Medical Officer of Health in Aberdeen, and his staff and indicating that he intends seriously to consider this particular recommendation?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, and in answer to a Question on a related matter by my hon. and learned Friend not long ago he will recall that I expressed the appreciation of, I am sure, all of us for the magnificent work of Dr. MacQueen last year.