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Medical Examination (Female Medical Officers)

Volume 388: debated on Tuesday 6 April 1943

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28.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether soldiers can be compelled to submit to a medical examination by female medical officers?

A soldier may be compelled to be medically examined whether the examination is carried out by a male or a female doctor.

Is the Minister aware that this is not a matter of amusement for a large number of soldiers who object to it? Is it compulsory for a soldier to undergo a routine medical inspection by a female medical officer when a male medical officer is available? Further, does this rule apply to officers as well as to other ranks?

Is the hon. Member desirous of having these sensitive men nursed by male nurses? Is it not in the interests of all that the best person available should do the job?

The Question I was asked was as to the legality of this and not as to its expediency. I have answered the Question as to the legality and not as to the expediency.

Mine was a perfectly legitimate Supplementary. I am asking the Minister whether it is legal when there is present a male medical officer who can conduct the examination?