43. Mr. Shawcrossasked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the report on the subject of proprietary medicines, submitted to him by [he Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain; and what steps he proposes to take to implement the Society's recommendations.
§ Mr. BevanI have given the report preliminary consideration. The Society's recommendation would involve legislation, for which I am afraid there is no early prospect.
Mr. ShawcrossDoes not my right hon. Friend agree, particularly in view of what was stated by the Parliamentary Secretary last night, that this is a matter of far-reaching importance, which becomes ever more urgent with the approach of a national medical service.
§ Mr. BevanI agree that it is of the utmost importance, but there are very large numbers of matters of great importance that are awaiting legislation also, and it is a matter of priorities. I can assure my hon. Friend that it is always present in my mind.
§ Mr. SolleyCan my right hon. Friend say whether, in view of the interest of Members in this report, it could be made available in the Vote Office or in any other way? I understand that it is a private document which has been given to the Minister.
§ Mr. BevanI believe that it is d private document. Therefore, I cannot promise to make it available.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithIs the Minister in a position to say why it was left to the Parliamentary Secretary to make this interesting statement last night.
§ Mr. SolleyCould not my right hon. Friend approach the Society to ascertain whether they would not object to the publication of this report, so that Members of the House could study it, in view of the national interests involved.
§ Mr. SolleyI am much obliged.