HC Deb 24 October 1946 vol 428 cc2-3
13. Dr. Segal

asked the Minister of Health to what extent supplies of B.C.G. vaccine for tuberculosis are now available in this country; and how they may be obtained.

Mr. Bevan

B.C.G., which is used in various countries for the prevention, not the treatment, of tuberculosis, is not at present available here. Steps are being taken, however, with a view to securing its manufacture in this country.

Dr. Segal

Is it not time the Minister appointed a commission of inquiry into the relative merits of this and other vaccines for the prevention of tuberculosis among contacts?

Mr. Bevan

As the hon. Gentleman knows, the situation in this field fortunately changes almost from week to week, and it is indeed doubtful whether a commission of inquiry would be in a sufficiently static position to make its recommendations of any value.