Dr. Morganasked the Home Secretary whether medical officers of his Department are investigating an industrial lung disease described as bagessosis caused by the inhalation of dust from cane fibre or bagesse; and whether it is being considered as one of those suitable for inclusion in a general scheme of industrial lung diseases eligible for workmen's compensation?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonI have received reports on this condition from the medical inspectors of factories, and I understand that it is now being specially investigated by the Medical Research Council. Pending this investigation, appropriate action cannot usefully be considered. I am advised, however, that the inquiries so far made suggest that the condition is not of such a character as to make it suitable for inclusion in a scheme of compensation on the lines of the schemes for silicosis and other forms of pneumoconiosis.