HC Deb 02 October 1924 vol 177 cc352-3W
Mr. J. GUEST

asked the Minister of Health whether he has read the statement of Sir George Newman in his Report for 1923, to the effect that there are many authorities find medical officers of health who muddle on from hand to mouth, the victims of every passing whim or popular stunt, instead of organising their work as responsible and competent men charged with the duty of directing the public service of their district; whether there is any record at the Ministry of the muddling authorities and incompetent medical officers of health: and, if so, what action he proposes to take, in the interests of the community, to remove the medical officers of health referred to from office and to supersede such authorities?

Mr. WHEATLEY

The answer to the first two parts of the question is "Yes." With regard to the third part, the difficulty is largely due to the passivity of local public opinion on health questions in many areas, and I have this point under consideration. Further difficulty arises owing to the number and size of many of the 1,800 sanitary authorities, a subject which would fall within the scope of the terms of reference to the Royal Commission on Local Government now sitting. There is no question that the large authorities are, as a whole, discharging their duties satisfactorily. In regard to the tenure of office of medical officers of health, I may refer the hon. Gentleman to my answer to the right hon. and learned Member for Ealing on 15th February last.

Mr. R. RICHARDSON

asked the Minister of Health if the statement in the Annual Report for 1923 of Sir George Newman, to the effect that in hundreds of sanitary districts there is a failure to use the facilities which the sanitary law provides, is based upon official records of the Ministry of Health; and, if so, whether he is prepared to appoint a Royal Commission to inquire generally into the whole question of the administration of the laws relating to public health and housing and the generally unsatisfactory conditions prevailing in the sanitary service?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The answer to the, first part of the question is "Yes." The second part refers to a matter which would fall within the scope of the terms of reference to the Royal Commission now sitting on Local Government.