Mr. GIDEON MURRAYasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the feeling that exists regarding the alleged carelessness of the medical officer who was responsible for the removal on the 17th November, 1918, of Private Donald Cameron, of the 17th Royal Scots, from his home to No. 3 Hospital, Stobhill, where he subsequently died, he will cause an inquiry to be made that will include the evidence of Ewen Cameron's family and the family doctor?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLMy hon. Friend originally raised this case in correspondence on 20th January last, and as a result of his representations a full inquiry was made into the circumstances. The patient was found to be not dangerously ill, and, according to instructions in such cases, the medical officer had no option but to order his removal to hospital. I am informed that the allegation that on reaching the hospital the patient was not treated as a cot case, but had to walk in, is unfounded, but I have already promised my hon. Friend that if any evidence to the contrary is submitted I will at once order further inquiries. I would point out that during the serious epidemic of influenza which prevailed at this time, in spite of every precaution, thousands of deaths took place among people who were living in the most comfortable circumstances at home.