§ 60. Mr. Saltasked the Minister of Supply by whom penicillin is being produced in Great Britain at the present time; and in what quantities.
§ 61. Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Minister of Supply whether he can make a comprehensive statement on the development of the penicillin position during the last three months; whether the erection of a large plant at a cost of £1,250,000 has been now authorised; which company has received the contract for the project; and when production will be commenced.
§ The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan)As regards plants in this country, I would refer to my statement in reply to a Question by the hon. and gallant Member for East Leicester (Colonel Lyons) on 4th October last. The volume of penicillin production both in North America and in this country has substantially increased during the past three months. Total supplies amply cover Service needs and increasing quantities will become available for civilian use. A large-scale plant now being erected in this country will be managed by the Distillers Company as agents for the Ministry of Supply and will commence production in the Spring of next year.
§ Mr. A. EdwardsCan the Minister explain why it is necessary for the hon. Member for Grantham (Mr. Kendall) to be left to supply all civilian needs in this 1753 country? There are cases of people dying who could not get it, until the hon. Member in question came to their aid.
§ Sir A. DuncanAs I said, civilian supplies will become increasingly obtainable and inquiries should be addressed to the Ministry of Health.
§ Dr. Haden GuestIs the Minister aware that the Ministry of Health has made penicillin available, when required, in a large number of cases? A circular to that effect has been issued to all medical men in the country.