HC Deb 17 February 1966 vol 724 c1553

Question proposed. That the Clause stand part of the Bill.

Sir K. Joseph

Subsection (5) of the clause raises the rather delicate issue of non-disclosure to a person of medical evidence. We understand that the officials have to balance the two interests when deciding what to disclose and what not to disclose. Could the Minister tell us whether there is anything new in the proposed regulations, or whether this is just the usual balancing of the personal interests of the individual against the danger of psychological shock for the individual if told something too depressing? Is there anything new in this?

Miss Herbison

The right hon. Gentleman is quite correct. At present, when dealing with war disabilities, we have the power not to give information if that information might make a person more ill. We are just doing the same as far as it applies to those cases which go before the tribunals.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clauses 11 to 14 ordered to stand part of the Bill.