HC Deb 09 September 1942 vol 383 cc128-9
10. Miss Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that the lack of sufficient qualified pharmacists serving as such with the Royal Air Force, whether they be members of the Royal Air Force or the Women's Auxiliary Air Force, is causing disquiet; that this has been increased by the recent case in which a member of the Women's Auxiliary Force died as a result of being poisoned by being given caustic soda instead of liquid paraffin; and what steps he is taking to remedy this scarcity?

Sir A. Sinclair

There is no shortage of qualified dispensers in the R.A.F" to fill established posts and I am not aware of any disquiet of the kind suggested by my hon. Friend. The lamentable event referred to in the Question was not due to any lack of trained men or women.

Miss Ward

Has my right hon. Friend had any representations from professional advisers?

Sir A. Sinclair

No, Sir.

Miss Ward

Would he consider any representations that might be made by those who are qualified?

Sir A. Sinclair

Yes, Sir.