§ Mr. Bevinsasked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement on the influenza epidemic in Liverpool.
§ Mr. Collickasked the Minister of Health what evidence he has as to the causes of the present influenza epidemic incapacitating a large proportion of the population in Birkenhead, on Merseyside, and in other large riverside ports in Scotland and the north of England; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarquandMerseyside and, to a less extent Tyneside, are the areas worst affected by the present epidemic of influenza. It is impossible to predict the behaviour of epidemic influenza with any40W accuracy but there is reason to hope that the epidemic has passed its peak in these areas although the incidence remains and may continue to be heavy. Available evidence suggests that the epidemic is still spreading in other parts of the country though the mortality so far is less serious.
It is possible that the infection spread to this country from Scandinavia where it was prevalent towards the end of 1950.
The epidemic is throwing very heavy burdens on all those helping the sick, especially general practitioners. I am sure that the whole nation is grateful to them and I would like to express my personal appreciation of the great value of their services. The public will, I know, show them all possible consideration at this difficult time.