HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 cc900-1
4. Dr. Summerskill

asked the Minister of Health what progress is being made to ensure that all immigrants to this country have a medical examination in their countries of origin or at their port of entry.

Mr. K. Robinson

Commonwealth immigrants with labour vouchers and others coming to settle are already examined at the port of entry and arrangements are in train for their examination in the country of origin. Entitled Commonwealth dependants are under present powers exempt from medical examination, but voluntary examination is being encouraged. Aliens are already liable to be referred for medical examination at the port of entry.

Dr. Summerskill

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that perhaps the compulsory medical examination of all immigrants would not only be a necessary public health measure but would relieve the overworked doctors in the areas where immigrants settle?

Mr. Robinson

Under existing legislation this is not possible.

Mr. Longbottom

Would not the Minister agree that it would be much more satisfactory if these examinations could be arranged in the countries of origin, but that some of those countries are very short of medical staff? If cases of this kind arise, would the Ministry of Health be able to organise teams to help with the examinations in the countries of origin?

Mr. Robinson

Arrangements are under discussion with the Commonwealth countries, concerned.