HC Deb 01 October 1942 vol 383 cc920-1
44. Mr. Tinker

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the hardship caused to diabetic patients by the increased prices of insulin and needles which they must have; and will he consider means to prevent these continued increased prices so as to place them within reach of all who need them?

The Minister of Health (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I am aware that prices have increased, but having regard to the free provision of insulin and the necessary appliances for administering it under the, National Health Insurance and public assistance schemes, I do not think that there is a case for any special measures to prevent any increases which may be warranted by the conditions of production.

Mr. Tinker

Could not something be done for people in need of insulin outside the societies mentioned?

Mr. Brown

I understand that the hon. Member for Hemsworth (Mr. G. Griffiths) has been discussing the matter with the Parliamentary Secretary.

Mr. George Griffiths

Does the right hon. Gentleman know that the discussion with the Parliamentary Secretary has failed badly and that it is time the Minister did something for these people who are suffering from diabetes? There is a person in my division taking 90 units a day, and she cannot get a penny piece. I hope the Minister will rise to the occasion. If he subsidises the price of insulin, that will do something towards it.

Mr. Brown

That is a point that we are looking at now.

Mr. Griffiths

I do not want the right hon. Gentleman to look at it. I want him to do it.