§ 25. Sir John Mellorasked the Minister of Supply whether he is satisfied that sufficient penicillin is now available for United Kingdom requirements; and whether he will revoke the Control of Penicillin (No. 1) Order, 1946 (S.R. & O., 1946, No. 731).
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. John Wilmot)No, Sir. Although the supply position has improved considerably, the removal of control measures would not be justified at present. The scope of the Order is, however, being extended, as from 1st November next, to allow registered veterinary surgeons to acquire supplies of penicillin.
§ Sir J. MellorAre we not now exporting penicillin? Can the right hon. Gentleman say why it should be a criminal offence to ask a chemist for penicillin without tendering an approved prescription?
§ Mr. WilmotI am advised that it would be most undesirable to allow penicillin to be used indiscriminately. It is better, for the time being, that control should be maintained.
§ Sir J. MellorWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the first part of my supple- 1294 mentary question? Is not penicillin now being exported?
§ Mr. WilmotYes, Sir, it is.