HC Deb 13 March 1952 vol 497 cc156-7W
89. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the case of the 10 months'-old baby of John Peters, who died following an inoculation against diphtheria recently; how many similar cases of deaths following this operation have been recorded; and whether he will call attention to those parents proposing to submit their children to this treatment, of a similar possibility.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

My right hon. Friend has made inquiries about this case. A post-mortem ordered by the coroner established that the cause of death was broncho-pneumonia, and he is advised that this had no connection with the child's inoculation against diphtheria. I do not think, therefore, that the latter parts of the Question arise.

90. Mr. Logan

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that John Bennett, out on licence from the Calderstones Institution, was medically examined and graded Al by the Army authorities but that they have now cancelled his calling up; and, as this man would like to join the Service, if he will, in view of the divergencies of medical opinion, have Mr. Bennett medically examined, so as definitely to ascertain his status.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

Yes. This man was on licence with a view to testing his fitness for discharge from Calderstones Hospital; and in view of the latest report on his progress, the Order for his detention under the Mental Deficiency Acts has now been discharged.

91. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the position of a lady of Newport, details of whom have been sent him, who was unable to obtain a National Health Service hearing aid about two years ago and was forced to purchase another type at a cost of £10; and, in view of the long delay, whether he will accelerate the supply of a hearing aid for her.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The Newport hearing aid centre can trace no application from this patient earlier than the 11th of last month. Many earlier applicants have first to be dealt with.

Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that Melvin John Harrison, 11, St. Anne's Road, Rugby, born 7th August, 1944, has been on the waiting list of the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board for admission to an institution for mental defectives for almost five years; and whether he will take action to secure an early admission in this case.

Mr. Crookshank

Arrangements for this patient's admission have already been made.