§ Mr. LANE-FOXasked what provision has been made under the National Insurance Act for sanatorium benefit for consumptives in the West Riding of Yorkshire, in addition to that already in exist-
ence before the Act came into operation; what is the estimated number of patients requiring treatment in the West Riding; and how many are now receiving treatment under the Act?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe West Riding of Yorkshire Insurance Committee have provided sanatorium, dispensary, and domiciliary treatment for insured persons and their dependants suffering from tuberculosis. Between 15th July and 20th November, 140 applications in all for treatment had been received by the insurance committee from insured persons, their dependants, and those who were uninsured or otherwise ineligible. Eighty-seven were recommended as suitable for treatment; some of these preferred to make their own arrangements, but eighty-two have actually received sanatorium benefit (forty-five in residential institutions, three in or through a dispensary, and thirty-four at home). The buildings in which accommodation has been secured were in existence before the Act came into operation 265W either as sanatoria or as hospitals, etc., but they have since where required been specially converted for use as sanatoria or otherwise adapted for the reception of tuberculous patients. Arrangements have now been made for the lease by the county council of the Cardigan sanatorium, whereby fifty additional beds will be made available. The county council are also promoting a permanent scheme for the provision of a sanatorium and dispensaries. This scheme has received the general approval of the Local Government Board, and an agreement between the county council and the insurance committee for the treatment of insured persons and their dependants under this scheme has been approved by the Insurance Commissioners.