§ Mr. DENISON-PENDERasked the Minister of Health what hospital accommodation there is for the isolation of scarlet fever and diphtheria cases in London; and, if he is not satisfied with the present accommodation, what steps are being taken to remedy the present Conditions?
§ Dr. ADDISONIn 1914 there were in London under the Metropolitan Asylums Board twelve institutions containing 7,065 beds for the treatment of infectious diseases (excluding institutions specially reserved for small-pox). Certain of these were lent to the military authorities during the War on account of war exigencies, but these have now all been returned with the exception of two, one of which will be returned by the end of February. I am corresponding with the War Office with regard to the other. One additional institu- 1075W tion has been made available for infectious cases. The twelve institutions now available have normally 6,162 beds, the bulk of which are available for scarlet fever and diphtheria. In addition, there is a reserve hospital, with 350 beds, which could be used in an emergency for these cases so long as there is no small-pox epidemic. I am satisfied that all possible steps are being taken.
§ Mr. SHORTasked the Minister of Health whether, in connection with the present epidemic of scarlet fever, he will make representations to the War Office for the release of hospitals under the Metropolitan Asylums Board in order to provide facilities for the children of the poor who may catch this complaint?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe requisite representations have been made, and arrangements are proceeding for the surrender of the few institutions remaining.