§ Mr. R. YOUNGasked the Home Secretary whether, to ensure confidence in a doctor who acts as certifying factory surgeon, he will take steps to prevent such a doctor also acting in the capacity of compensation doctor for firms in the same area and at the same time as he is fulfilling the first-named duty?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANIt would not be possible to lay down any general rule on the subject because in industrial districts it is often difficult to find a well-qualified medical man who does not hold some appointment in connection with employers or associations of workpeople. The consideration, however, is borne in mind in making appointments, and the Department is always prepared to inquire into any case of grievance that may be brought to its notice. I may add that an appeal lies from decisions of a certifying surgeon under the Workmen's Compensation Act to the medical referee appointed under that Act.
§ Mr. YOUNGasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that certifying factory surgeons refuse to give a second certifying note to men who have already been examined by them on the grounds that the man or men have not returned to their former occupations; and whether he will take steps to ensure that such a certifying note will be issued within such time as is reasonable after the issue of the first note?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI do not gather precisely what the practice is of which the hon. Member complains. If he will furnish me with further particulars, I shall be glad to go into the matter.