HC Deb 01 August 1924 vol 176 cc2420-2W
Mr. J. GARDNER

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the rata of maternal mortality in Fulham for the years 1919–22 was 4˙34, the fourth highest in the Metropolis, and more than double that of West Ham; that for the same years its maternal mortality from puerperal fever was 2˙56, the second highest in the Metropolis, and more than three times that of West Ham; will he give the figures of Fulham for 1923; what was the expenditure, or estimated expenditure, on maternity and child welfare per head of population of Fulham and West Ham in 1923; the number of mothers to whom in that year the guardians and borough councils of those districts, respectively, supplied doctors or trained midwives for their confinement; what was the number of expectant and nursing mothers in that year to whom those bodies, respectively, gave milk or other food; whether the high mortality and fever in Fulham was mainly among the poorer classes; and whether he will have a medical inquiry as to Fulham, or take other steps so that a poor woman; in Fulham may run as little risk in childbirth as one in West Ham?

Mr. WHEATLEY

I am in communication with the authorities concerned, and will furnish my hon. Friend with the information desired as soon as possible.

Mr. J. GARDNER

asked the Minister of Health the number of mothers who, in 1923 in Kensington and Poplar, respectively, obtained the assistance of a doctor or trained midwife in their confinements from the guardians or borough council, respectively; the number of expectant and nursing mothers to whom those bodies in the same year gave milk or other suitable food; in what proportion of the above cases did the Kensington guardians place the relief on loan; whether there is a woman relieving officer in Kensington; and, if not, whether he will suggest that one should be appointed to receive applications from mothers and expectant mothers?

Mr. WHEATLEY

I am in communication with the authorities concerned, and will furnish my hon. Friend with the information desired as soon as possible.