HC Deb 15 September 1909 vol 10 c2291W
Sir MAURICE LEVY

asked the President of the Local Government Board, whether he will give instructions to vaccination officers to accept declarations under the Vaccination Act, 1907, made by mothers in the absence of their husbands at sea or anywhere where they are unable to make the declaration?

Mr. BURNS

The Law Officers advised in 1898 that under ordinary circumstances the father was the person to obtain a certificate of conscientious objection, and a similar view would no doubt apply to the making of a statutory declaration under the Vaccination Act, 1907. A declaration made by the mother would not relieve the father from liability. It would, however, relieve her from liability, and for this purpose it should be accepted by the vaccination officer. Where it has appeared to me necessary, I have informed the vaccination officer to this effect. It does not seem to be necessary to make any general communication on the subject.