§ Mr. MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that James Wilson, 9, Elder Park Street, Govan, and John Campbell, 2, Green-haugh Street, Govan, were stewards on the "Tuscania," on 4th April, when the health authorities at Glasgow suspected an outbreak of small-pox; that after two weeks they were stated to be fit for work, were vaccinated, and signed on, on 18th April, with the "Athenia," and passed the doctor; that the second steward of 1724W the "Athenia" scored their names off the list, and that they can get no satisfactory reason why they are being treated in this manner; and whether he will cause inquiries to be made, and action taken, to protect the interests of these men?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am aware that two men, who were being signed on for the "Athenia" on 18th April, were refused employment when it was learned that they had been stewards on the "Tuscania." I have not been able, in the time at my disposal, to ascertain the names of the two men or the details of their history. I have, however, learned that the Medical Officer of Health of Glasgow, by the issue of certificates to all members of the crew of the "Tuscania" within his area stating that they had been under observation for the quarantine period of the disease, and that they were now free from infection so far as that source was concerned, has done all in his power to protect the interests of the men and to assist them in securing employment. As the hon. Member no doubt realises, I cannot interfere with the discretion of an employer who is engaging men, but I am advised that there is no reason why members of the crew of the "Tuscania" who are in possession of the certificate referred to should be refused employment because of any risk of infection.