Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health how soon he will issue instructions to local education authorities to resume the medical inspection of school children on the lines in vogue before the War, instead of on the reduced scale sanctioned by the Board of Education during the War; and when he proposes to put in force the provisions for extended medical inspection under the Act of 1918?
654W
§ Dr. ADDISONI am informed that medical inspection in public elementary schools was fully maintained throughout the War in more than two-thirds of the areas of local education authorities. In the remaining areas where the provision had to be temporarily restricted, they are now being rapidly restored, as the requisite staffs are obtained. Under the circumstances, no special instruction appears necessary. Section 18 of the Education Act was brought into operation on 8th August, 1918, except in so far as it imposed a duty. The present intention is to bring it into full operation on 1st April, 1920.