HC Deb 28 September 1944 vol 403 cc408-9
40. Mr. Kendall

asked the Minister of Health whether in view of the fact that penicillin is available to German prisoners, for wounds or diseases of all types in which this drug is effective, he will take immediate steps to make it available for British civilians in those cases where death would otherwise result.

Mr. Willink

As my hon. Friend is aware, His Majesty's Government is required by the Geneva Convention to care for wounded prisoners of war, without distinction of nationality, equally with our own personnel. The bulk of the penicillin at present available is required for Service cases, and I regret that the amount which can be released for the treatment of civilians is not sufficient to enable penicillin to be given to every case which might conceivably benefit from it. It is necessary, therefore, to reserve this small amount for the treatment of cases in which it may be the only means of saving life or of effecting recovery from grave illness and in which the prospects of recovery are high.

Mr. Kendall

Is it not a fact that we are getting large supplies now from the United States of America? I want to ask whether or not it is more desirable to give British citizens a chance of liiving than the Germans?

Mr. Willink

I have made it quite clear that His Majesty's Government are bound in this matter by the Geneva Convention.

Mr. Bowles

When I tell my right hon. and learned Friend of a case in which five young women died within two hours in a hospital, will he perhaps believe that the supply of penicillin in that hospital is much too short?

Mr. Willink

If my hon. Friend will give me details of such a case I shall be able to look into it.

Mr. Kendall

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker. I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.