§ 60. Mr. SCRYMGEOURasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that many of the meat and tonic wines, widely advertised as containing no drugs, contain, according to the British Medical Association certification, from 15 to 20 per cent. of alcohol; and will he take into consideration the advisability of compulsory notification as to such particulars on the bottles?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)This question was considered by the Select Committee on Patent Medicines, which reported in 1914; and the Hon. Member's suggestion, which is in accordance with the Committee's recommendation, will be considered in connection with any legislation for the purpose of regulating the sale of secret or patent medicines.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a declaration has been made by Dr. W. McAdam Eccles, the eminent surgeon and specialist adviser to the King, to the effect that "The public should not be deluded by but protected from specious advertisements of these so-called medicated meat or food wines."
§ Sir K. WOODI am not aware of that statement, but I know the Committee came to the conclusion summarised in the hon. Member's question. It is a matter which would need legislation.