§ Baroness MASHAM of ILTONasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that iron lungs are no longer being manufactured and are in short supply; and whether they will therefore attempt to discover how many in hospitals and elsewhere are no longer in use, with a view to reconditioning them for use where they are needed.
§ Lord WELLS-PESTELLMy right honourable friends the Health Ministers are aware that because of diminished demand the traditional form of "iron lung" is no longer being manufactured. It is the responsibility of Health Authorities to ensure that items of medical equipment in their possession are satisfactorily maintained and to offer any that are surplus to local requirements to other Health Authorities. Inquiries are however being made to locate any iron lungs that are not being used and which can be made available.