16.
asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the incidence of skin diseases, such as dermatitis and, impetigo among the troops; what is the cause; and what steps are being taken to reduce this complaint?
I am aware that war conditions tend to increase the incidence of all skin diseases, including those mentioned by the hon. Member. The steps taken to reduce these diseases include the provision of facilities for ablution and the washing of clothes, the circulation of up-to-date information to all medical officers, medical inspections, and the provision of improved facilities for treatment. This includes, when it is necessary, treatment by specialists.
Is my right hon. Friend aware that officers, generally speaking, do not suffer from these complaints? Is not that sufficient indication that there is something from which the men specially suffer—for instance, dirty blankets—which requires the attention of the medical authorities in the Army?
I think that is extremely unlikely.
Does my right hon. Friend know that officers do not suffer in the same way from these complaints, and can he give any reason for that?
I could not, offhand, give the hon. Member a medical disquisition on this point. What I am denying is that there is something special, and unsuitable, in the conditions of other ranks which makes them particularly liable to this disease in the Army.
Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that dermatitis is increasing among these men when they are in civilian employment, before they are passed for the Services? Is it possible for him to ask the medical boards to look for these diseases?
I will certainly look into that point. My information—although I am not an expert on the matter—is that dermatitis is becoming increasingly prevalent in civilian life.