Dr. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Committee of Inquiry on radiological hazards to patients, appointed in January, 1957, has not yet reported finally at the end of three years, whereas the Committee of Inquiry on the export of live cattle to the Continent for slaughter, appointed the following month, reported in two months; and when he anticipates that the report of the first named Committee will be received in final form.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe Committee on Radiological Hazards to Patients has been carrying out a very comprehensive programme of scientific investigation, and has already published an interim Report on the effects of mass miniature radiography. It expects to publish a second report before the autumn. This will deal with the possible danger to future generations arising from medical radiology. Further scientific work will be needed before the hazard to the individual can be assessed, and I cannot yet forecast when the Committee will be able to report on this aspect.