§ Mr. COMPTONasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Mr. A. Smith, late radiographer and chief dispenser at the Coventry and Warwickshire Hospital; whether he is aware that, in consequence of his work in connection with X-ray treatment, this man developed X-ray dermatitis in 1913; that he had to retire from the work; that, in spite of treatment, his complaint became worse, necessitating several operations and the amputation of a leg; that eventually Mr. Smith became affected with paralysis, has had two strokes, and is now suffering from failing eyesight; and whether he will consider the possibility of making provision for Mr. Smith and for similar cases where, in consequence of devoted and dangerous service in the interests of the sick, there is a breakdown in health and a deprivation of the means of livelihood?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI have not received any previous information with regard to this case, nor are there any funds at the disposal of the Ministry from which provision could be made for Mr. Smith. I might, however, add that an Order has recently been made by the Home Secretary under Section 8 of the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1906, extending the provisions of that Act to certain diseases, including inflammation of the skin due to exposure to X-rays. The Order, which came into operation on 1st February, does not apply retrospectively.