114. Mr. Braddockasked the Secretary of State for War what instructions have been issued recently to Army commanders with reference to the voluntary nature of vaccination and inoculation; where these instructions referred also to the wives and families of officers and men; and whether such instructions are brought to the notice of all the officers who are concerned in such matters.
§ Mr. LawsonInstructions issued as recently as 20th February stated that inoculation and vaccination are voluntary and I believe that this is well known throughout the Army. These instructions refer to Service personnel and their families. The question of the inoculation and vaccination of families proceeding overseas is at present under discussion. Difficulties arise because it is laid down by some foreign countries that vaccination and inoculation certificates must be produced as a condition of entry into the country concerned. Where this is the case passages clearly cannot be granted to civilian passengers unless they are in possession of the necessary certificates. Present instructions therefore state that certain types of vaccination and inoculation must be carried out before passage can be allowed.
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§ Mr. Viantasked the Secretary of State for War whether soldiers carry in their pay books a record of the vaccinations performed.
§ Mr. LawsonYes, Sir.