§ 8. Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he is taking to reduce the risk of tuberculosis among hospital laboratory technicians.
§ Mr. AlisonI would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Stockport, South (Mr. Orbach) on 1st December. Reports so far received from hospital authorities indicate that they have made good the deficiencies disclosed by the recent survey.—[Vol. 807, c. 323.]
§ Dr. SummerskillWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the incidence of tuberculosis among technicians working with tuberculosis cultures is three times the national level according to a trade union survey? Why have not the Government published a recent survey carried out by them into the incidence of tuberculosis and safety precautions?
§ Mr. AlisonThe number of cases was 34 in the three years ending 31st December, 1969. The only reason we have not 1169 published the survey is that there have been so many changes as a result of it that it would be out of date.