HC Deb 28 March 1928 vol 215 c1186W
Mr. J. BAKER

asked the Minister of Health how many cases of small-pox have occurred amongst vagrants visiting casual wards during the past 12 months; when the last case occurred; and whether any measures are still being taken to prevent the spread of infection?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have no definite information as to the number of cases, but small-pox is known to my Department to have occurred in some 60 casual wards during the present year. The most recent cases were reported on the 26th March. As regards the last part of the question, I have renewed the instruction that, with a view to detecting cases of small-pox, all persons admitted to the casual wards of Poor Law institutions shall be medically examined.