HC Deb 02 December 1943 vol 395 cc538-9W
Mr. E. Williams

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will inquire into the case of Mr. W. Bailey, of The Avenue, Pontycymmen, Glamorgan, whose application for release from the mining industry on health grounds, supported by an experienced medical practitioner, was overruled by the Ministry's doctor, whose decision was upheld by the Appeal Tribunal; that after about two weeks further work at the coal face Mr. Bailey became so ill that his doctor advised him to stop work; that Mr. Bailey has since died; and whether he will review the medical arrangements made by his Department to prevent similar cases arising in future?

Mr. Bevin

I have received a full report on this case. The medical referee by whom Mr. Bailey was examined is a practitioner of very high standing and great experience in colliery work. The question whether he was justified in reaching the decision which he did involves difficult considerations of a medical character, and I am writing my hon. Friend more fully on this.