HC Deb 20 September 1939 vol 351 cc947-8
56. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Minister of Health whether supplies of radium are now available for patients who are in urgent need of this treatment?

Miss Horsbrugh

I understand that in view of the great danger to the public which would exist if radium were dispersed by high explosive action, the Radium Commission and other holders have caused their radium to be deposited in places of safety and that it is not at present available for therapeutic purposes. Provision for X-ray therapy is being as far as possible maintained. I am communicating with the commission with a view to their considering the possibility of making radium available for treatment subject to suitable safeguards.

Sir Francis Fremantle

Has the Minister of Health considered the very definite and unanimous recommendation of the National Radium Commission, King Edward's Hospital Fund, and the British X-Ray and Radium Protection Committee on this subject?

Miss Horsbrugh

My right hon. Friend has considered all these points, and is still considering what further efforts can be made.

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