§ 49. Mr. Jannerasked the Lord President of the Council what research is being undertaken on the disease of disseminated sclerosis; at which hospitals such research is being carried out; and how far Government supervision or financial assistance is given to such research.
§ The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)Observations on cases of this distressing disease are constantly being made by neurologists in hospitals throughout the country, in the hope of gaining a better understanding of its cause and nature or of improving its treatment. Special investigations are at present in progress at the Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, and at the Middlesex Hospital in London. Much research on the subject has been done in the past, with Government aid and otherwise. Such aid has not been sought for either of the special investigations just mentioned; but support will be forthcoming, if required, for exploiting any promising new idea on the subject.
§ Mr. JannerIn view of the terrible nature of this disease, would my right hon. Friend say whether he is satisfied that as much research as is necessary is taking place at present and will he encourage as much research as is possible?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir, certainly. I will encourage all the research that is 1027 possible and promising. My hon. Friend must appreciate that one must be selective as to a promising line of research. We are on the look-out for it. I fully agree with him about the terrible nature of this disease. We will do all we can.