HC Deb 27 May 1946 vol 423 cc802-3
6. Captain Baird

asked the Minister of Supply what stocks of dental equipment are now available for disposal to the profession; and what stocks have been handed over to his Department from the Service Departments.

Mr. Wilmot

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Captain Baird

Can the Minister give me any information about the equipment released by the Ministry of Health? Does he know that, during the winter months, a large quantity of dental chairs have been lying out in the open at Chessington and Woolwich and that, when dental supply traders were asked to quote a price, they said they could only offer a scrap price? Is he further aware that many dental surgeons are debarred from practising because they cannot get equipment?

Following is the answer:

— Declared surplus by the Service Departments. Allocated to Local Authorities and Dental Schools. Already disposed of through the trade. At present on offer to the trade.
Dental Chairs … 196 50 56 90
Dental Engines … 165 46 38 81
Fountain Spittoons … 106 49 21 36
Dental Cabinets … 140 Nil Nil 140

A small quantity of instruments has also been sold through trade channels.