Mr. J. JONESasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there has been an outbreak of small-pox in the borough of Poplar and in other parts of East London; and whether, in order to assist in preventing the spread of such disease, he will secure the amendment of the Workmen's Compensation Act or at once introduce legislation to enable a person contracting an infectious or contagious disease through the neglect of any individual, body of persons, or Government Department, to obtain compensation 1828W on similar lines to that which enables a workman to receive compensation for contracting a disease in the course of his employment?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. All practicable steps are being taken to prevent the spread of the disease, but I do not see how the course suggested by the hon. Member would assist in that direction, and I could not undertake to introduce legislation on the lines suggested by the hon. Member.