HC Deb 02 November 1948 vol 457 c64W
Mr. Viant

asked the Minister of Health what was the condition in regard to vaccination of the cases of smallpox arriving on the seven large vessels from India between January and June, 1946; of the cases of smallpox on the 14 similar vessels that arrived on which cases of smallpox had occurred and been landed en route; of the patients from 31 vessels arriving with cases of chickenpox on board; of the cases of chickenpox from 21 vessels that had been disposed of prior to arrival; why were the chickenpox cases disposed of prior to arrival; whether the chickenpox cases that were landed into hospital en route were landed because they were severe; and whether there were any deaths of cases from ships, either of smallpox or chickenpox, landed en route.

Mr. Bevan

The information asked for is not available in my Department, and I do not feel that I would be justified in going to the very great trouble (involving, amongst other things, inquiries abroad) and expense in order to try to obtain it.